While Liberty Media aims to expand F1 by looking at new locations for Grands Prix, Mohammed Ben Sulayem does not share the same view. The FIA president has criticized the decision to increase the calendar to twenty-four races and has explained what he believes is the winning formula.
Over the past ten years, the calendar has gone from having 19 races to 24. Seasons are becoming increasingly demanding, and this is not well received by the people working in the paddock, who spend more and more time away from home.
Another person who does not appreciate this increase in races is Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who, before addressing the number of seasonal events, focused on the locations hosting the Grands Prix. In recent years, we have seen many new additions: Saudi Arabia, Las Vegas, Miami, Qatar.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, aligning with many fans who fear the loss of historic tracks, has shared his opinion. “Liberty Media is doing a good job, but I would be even happier if F1 returned to France or even Germany. Expanding into new countries is great, but we must not forget our historical roots.”
Mohammed Ben Sulayem Favors a Reduction in Races
According to the FIA president, organizing a season with twenty-four races is not ideal, and he has proposed what he considers a reasonable number of events. “I think there are too many; I said it, and many media outlets attacked me. Twenty would be enough.”
Mohammed Ben Sulayem concluded by explaining what he believes is the best strategy to ensure an entertaining championship. In recent years, Stefano Domenicali has been in favor of bringing F1 to as many countries as possible, and it has been difficult for Cadillac to enter the category.
On the contrary, the FIA president believes the best option is to reduce the number of races while allowing more teams to join. “From the beginning, I have said that I think we need fewer Grands Prix but more teams. That is why we involved General Motors with Cadillac. Many were against it, but it was a good decision for the sport.”
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