Source:REUTERS/JAKUB PORZYCKI
[Saba Sports News] Previously, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali proposed shortening Grand Prix race formats in the future during a media interview, a statement that quickly drew attention. Domenicali believes longer races mean a slower pace, which is not conducive to attracting younger viewers. His suggestions also included increasing the number of Sprint races on the calendar and introducing a “reverse grid” format. Recently, Red Bull driver Max Verstappen commented on this matter in an interview, expressing his disinterest in Domenicali’s proposals. He bluntly stated, “I’m not interested in that at all. It’s just for show, right? Or to try and get more excitement. It’s just like a money-making thing.” Verstappen believes that competitive sports have their own inherent characteristics; while there are exciting moments and periods that may seem dull, that is the nature of the sport. He does not want F1 to go to another extreme. We believe that if reforms are too radical, they could damage F1’s tradition and essence, leading to a loss of longtime fans. Furthermore, changes to the racing format need to consider the interests of drivers, teams, sponsors, and viewers comprehensively, requiring thorough research and discussion.