How Max Verstappen is creating a massive problem in Formula 1

Silverstone

At the start of the Formula 1 season, drivers head to the Silverstone for the British GP. The current state of predictability of F1 has become a serious problem for promoters, becoming a problem for the sport.

'The Flying Dutchman'

When all races have similar outcomes, the thrill and the adrenaline of the sport cease to be a thing. Most race outcomes have been predictable since 2021, all thanks to Max Verstappen.

Managing Director of Silverstone

Stuart Pringle, the Managing Director of Silverstone, has openly linked Red Bull's recent superiority in the sport as a probable dampener on fan enthusiasm and ticket demand, according to F1Briefings.

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"Predictability will kill the sport"

"Pringle shared his concerns regarding the repetitive outcomes of races dominated by the same team," Autosport writes. Pringle suggests that such predictability will kill the sport.

Before and after COVID-19

Before COVID-19, Formula 1 had to promote their races until the end. However, "there was an incredible bounce post-Covid," explained Pringle.

Verstappen's dominion

"If there is a strong likelihood of the same winner, and the jeopardy is taken out of the sport, it does take the edge off it," added the Managing Director of Silverstone. He is talking about Verstappen and his complete dominion over the paddock.

Solid numbers

The Dutch driver is climbing the ranks in F1's history after securing 63 wins, 40 pole positions, 111 podiums, and four impressive Drivers' titles. Max Verstappen has been dominating the scene these past four years, according to ESPN.

High prices

Rising ticket prices don't help either. Some fans have voiced their frustrations with Formula 1 and its aggressive commercialization is edging out regular attendees.

Formula 1 vs football?

Pringle went on to compare football to Formula 1 claiming: "You can still buy a three-day weekend ticket today that includes Friday night with Stormzy, Pete Tong, Rudimental plus all that other stuff, and weekend grandstand seat, for £359 (€425/$456). It's £100 to watch one game of football," shared Pringle.

A resurgence?

Looking ahead, Pringle and other promoters remain hopeful that a resurgence in performances by British drivers will reignite local interest and boost ticket sales for the British visit.

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