Happy opening F1 weekend, Qualifiers!

We began our 2024 F1 journey in Bahrain, witnessing another clinical display of aerodynamic and piloting perfection. Max Verstappen scored a Grand Chelem achieving pole position in qualifying, the fastest lap in the race and then winning while leading every lap of the race the same weekend.

For Verstappen, that is the fifth time he has achieved that feat, tying him with Michael Schumacher and Alberto Ascari. He is now behind only Lewis Hamilton (6) and Jim Clark (8). Only 26 drivers have ever secured a Grand Chelem, with 68 total.

Here’s the top 10 classification:

1. Max Verstappen 🏆

2. Sergio Perez +22.457s 🥈 

3. Carlos Sainz +25.110s 🥉

4. Charles Leclerc +39.669s

5. George Russell +46.788s

6. Lando Norris +48.458s

7. Lewis Hamilton +50.324s

8. Oscar Piastri +56.082s

9. Fernando Alonso +74.887s

10. Lance Stroll +93.216s

Today, I wanted to talk about the challenges F1 faces regarding fan apathy. While anecdotal, what got me thinking about this topic is the multitude of text messages I received from friends and family who got into watching Formula 1 through Drive to Survive or the current F1 marketing blitz.

There’s a lot more to dive in on this topic, but wanted to start the conversation sooner rather than later.

One thing I ask is that if you find this newsletter interesting, would you share it with someone you think would also enjoy it? Thank you 🙏

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The Lead

Since 2017, Formula 1 has been under the strategic direction of Liberty Media, embarking on a transformative journey since the departure of Bernie Ecclestone. This transformation, characterized by an infusion of new investments and initiatives to enhance fan engagement, is reshaping the landscape of this elite motorsport. However, this period of growth and expansion is not without its challenges, highlighting several growing pains that the sport is currently navigating.

A significant concern is the apparent lack of balance in competition, illustrated by Red Bull Racing's Max Verstappen's dominance, with a record 19 wins out of 22 races last season and a rather uneventful 22-second win over his teammate in the 2024 opener.

This dominance raises questions about the competitive nature of F1 and its appeal to fans who crave unpredictability and close racing. The shifting dynamics within teams, notably Lewis Hamilton's planned move to Ferrari, add another layer of intrigue to the sport's appeal to new fans, but needs the on-track product to deliver for it all to matter.

Then, there’s the rejection of Andretti Global's bid to join F1 as the 11th team, underscoring a critical area of contention within the sport's governance. The process, as criticized by many, lacked transparency and consistency, with the goalposts for entry appearing to shift unexpectedly. This situation has prompted a call for an overhaul in the admissions process, aiming for clarity and fairness in how new teams are welcomed, as Formula 1 Chief Executive Stefano Domenicali acknowledges.

Moreover, F1's aggressive expansion in the U.S. market, while successfully broadening its fanbase and reducing the average age of its audience, has sparked debates over the calendar's balance. The addition of multiple races in the USA has led to concerns about over-saturation in one market at the expense of the sport's global appeal.

Financials Speak a Different Language

Financially, F1 is on an upward trajectory, with Liberty Media reporting a jump in Formula 1 Group's quarterly revenue from $754 million to $1.23 billion. This financial health indicates the sport's growing popularity and the success of its initiatives to engage a wider audience. However, this economic success also highlights the need for strategic decisions that balance profit with the essence of racing competition and the sport's traditional values.

The mixed reactions to Liberty Media's entertainment-focused initiatives, such as the F1 Arcade and F1 Exhibition, reflect the broader conversation about maintaining the core of F1 racing amidst its expansion and evolution.

As F1 continues to navigate these growing pains, the sport finds itself at a crossroads, seeking to maintain its historical roots while embracing a future filled with broader appeal and innovative experiences.

If you want to watch all the action this season, the best way is with an F1TV Subscription (where applicable).*

An Experience You Won’t Want to Miss

I’m excited about this one, not just for obvious reasons, but because it’s one of those collaborations that offers an upscale experience without forgetting to pay homage to the series’ history.

The Legends Lounge | Schumacher sets out to celebrate the legend himself and his illustrious Formula One legacy. The lounge commemorates 30 years since his first championship win.

You’ll dive into an exclusive showcase featuring rare artifacts, Schumacher's iconic cars, and special guest appearances. Experience the extraordinary with behind-the-scenes insights into Michael's unparalleled career and the resilience that made him a legend.

You’ll also have the opportunity to attend "An Evening for Michael," a unique dining experience with F1 legends, sharing untold stories and auctioning precious memorabilia to benefit the Keep Fighting Foundation.

Read the official press release here.

From Around the World of Motorsport

• Caruth third black driver to win a NASCAR series race

• Pruett: Honda to NASCAR? (podcast)

• Alpine in a freefall

• F1 is the first series to use Pirelli-FSC tyres

• Porsche wins in Qatar

• IndyCar charter system would increase Indy 500 entries

• MotoGP owner hopes to sell to Liberty Media

• Vegas business owners to sue F1

*a message from our sponsor

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