Despite the drastic increase in the popularity of Formula 1 under the ownership of Liberty Media, drivers, team managers, and the media have opposed certain aspects of the innovations introduced by the American company
In addition to some disapproval of the pre-race entertainment show in Miami, the transition of Formula 1 to the sprint format on several weekends has not been universally appreciated.
Recently, Red Bull Racing Dutch driver Max Verstappen suggested that if Formula 1 continues to follow the path of sprint races as part of a major calendar expansion, he will have to consider his long-term future in the sport.
However, Stefano Domenicali, who has played a role in driving the push for the introduction of sprint races, believes that it is wrong for individuals to criticize aspects of F1 that have contributed to making Grand Prix races more popular and inevitably raising the levels of popularity for everyone involved.
Speaking in a recent interview for British daily middle-market tabloid newspaper ‘Daily Mail’, the current Formula One chief executive officer stated, “I don’t want a society where people can’t say what they want. But sometimes, drivers need to remember that they are part of a larger picture. We shouldn’t be selfish.” – the Italian pointed out.
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“They are part of this sport and this business, which is growing because we think in a broader way. Sometimes stepping out of our comfort zone isn’t easy, but we can’t be lazy or complacent, just as we can reconsider some specifics of the weekend format with sprint races at the end of the season, after trying them out in the planned six occasions. There won’t be sprints every weekend.” – the former Ferrari boss explained.
“But we have a new audience, and we need to offer value for money in every session, not letting everyone go around in circles solely for the benefit of engineers and drivers.” – Stefano Domenicali believes.
Max Verstappen’s statements questioning his future in Formula 1 due to ideas like the sprint race, garnered much attention earlier in the year.
Stefano Domenicali dismissed rumors that the Dutchman wanted to leave the series, having spoken to him before the last race in Miami.
“I spoke with Max [before the last race in Miami]. He told me he loves this sport and what he’s doing. He is a world champion and is fighting for a third title. He was born in a car. I would say he’ll probably stay longer than me. It’s not a problem,” CEO of Formula 1 concluded, ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix.
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