Silver Arrows Save Formula One
Since 2014, Mercedes, as Bernie Ecclestone put it, haven't been good for Formula One in the sense that they keep winning. However, this week, the Silver Arrows just might have saved the sport.
Now, a month away from the 2020 Formula One season kicking off in Austria, the teams have come together to vote on 'reverse grids'. The idea was for there to be a thirty-minute qualifying race at venues holding two races this season (Austria and Great Britain) to determine the starting order for Sunday's race. The grid for the qualifying race would have been determined by reverse championship order. To introduce this new development to the sport, the vote had to be unanimous. In theory, watching the likes of Hamilton, Leclerc and Verstappen fighting through the field at top speed sounds like a brilliant spectacle. After all, there is a chance that the results for the two events might have been somewhat similar so spicing it up a bit wouldn't have been a bad idea. However, only 15% of fans said that they would like such a system put in place. Here's why...
“F1's market value is directly proportional to how exceptional it is”.
Regarding qualifying, I am not alone in the thinking that if something is not broken, it shouldn't be fixed. In 2016 there was a brief change in format to a universally loathed knock-out qualifying session. That was soon scrapped and the current system returned. Fans love the high-speed drama of qualifying as they find out which driver is the quickest over just one lap. So why not give the people what they want?
Furthermore, Formula One is the pinnacle of motorsport. Therefore, success should be defined by the sprint on a Saturday as well as the marathon on a Sunday. Such a format reveals the best overall driver - he or she who can grab the car by the scruff of the neck, stay measured and participate in wheel-to-wheel combat. Thus, Lewis Hamilton can be definitively named as the best driver in the world. In contrast, record-breaking marathon runner Eliud Kipchoge's claim to the title of the best runner in the world would still be disputable since there are faster sprinters. And when we tune into the Premier League, we don't expect Brighton to start a few goals up on Manchester United just because United are top of the league. While Brighton might uncomfortably accept the advantage, a sport's value depends upon its meritocracy, and the competitor in anyone involved would be much more inclined to see Brighton cause an upset on a level playing field than see Brighton park the bus and hold on for 2-1.
A reverse grid feels manufactured: it gives poorly performing competitors the upper hand, a system that adversely affects the way that driver compete. Formula E has been a great success in many ways, attracting the demographic looking for a focus on entertainment within racing. Formula E masterfully delivers on that desire, with the inclusion of 'fan boosts', encouraging spectators to be a part of the action. The issue with this format, for some, is that the person standing on the top of the podium might not necessarily be the best driver. That being the case, some fans may be less attracted by the Formula E series than by Formula One.
If Formula One does go down the road of reverse grids, the frequency of overtakes will increase, diluting the emotional impact and resulting in a watered down racing experience. F1's market value is directly proportional to how exceptional it is, so this would be a problem. The finest drivers compete in the fastest cars - that is Formula One's DNA.
“Success in business comes from prioritising the emotions of those who are paying”.
Success in business comes from prioritising the emotions of those who are paying. Different motorsport categories can scratch particular itches. If you want plenty of overtakes, you might go in the direction of Formula E or NASCAR. If you require flamboyancy, rallying may be your cup of tea. Those who watch Formula One do so for the adrenaline, the speed and the passion. Formula One offers them excitement, turning drivers into heroes. It needs to keep to this recipe. Formula One's authenticity must prevail over any imitation.
The need to attract a new audience would be applicable were the current model failing. But interest in Formula One is actually on the rise. The Netflix documentary, 'Drive To Survive', has been a success. The celebrity status of Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen has also been hugely influential in attracting new spectators to Grand Prix. A significant amount of Formula One's brand development can be attributed to 'CREATIV HOUSE'. This company has been involved in multiple projects that are connecting Formula One with fashion, music and popular culture. Their involvement in collaborations with the likes of BAPE and appearances of the likes of Will Smith, Odell Beckham Jr and Stormzy have enhanced Formula One's image of excitement and exclusivity, attracting a newer crowd of onlookers to racing events.
It is interesting to see how CREATIV HOUSE, a relatively small but mighty company, is using its connections so effectively. This way of marketing is where Formula One can make strides as a business and, following the decision to implement a budget cap for teams, can be sustainable, too. Despite this decision causing losses of jobs in the industry, it was the right move for the sport because it keeps it alive and offers more opportunity for the underdog.
“Fans want to see the greatest in the world taking the trophy home”.
Mercedes were never going to vote for a reverse grid system. As Martin Brundle has said, doing so would be like a turkey voting for Christmas. Mercedes boss, Toto Wolff, is a shrewd businessman and a real racer, with an innate ability to make decisions which foresee the future. It would be justifiable, therefore, to believe that he knows what he is doing for the sport and not just his team. Fans want to see the greatest in the world taking the trophy home. Last week, Mercedes' vote against the reverse grid system guaranteed just that.
On Reflection: Sport’s back, the podcast world changes, and more…
Preview:
Hello all, I hope that you have had a great week. If you are new to this blog, I welcome you. If you are returning to hear more from me, then I thank you with all my heart. This section is for me to review the last few days, briefly giving you my thoughts on five bits of content that I enjoyed or felt needed to be part of the conversation. Also, they’ll be in five different formats. That way, there should be something that everyone and anyone can appreciate.
Cheers!
Something to read: “Prisoners of Geography” by Tim Marshall
An insightful book from a highly respected Global Affairs expert who comprehends the importance of the views of people on the ground. So far, I have just read the first chapter regarding Russia. It never ceases to amaze me just how vast that place is. Stretching 6,000 miles, going through eleven time zones and two continents, to miss Russia on a map would be like missing an asteroid strike - nigh on impossible. From a strategic standpoint, invading Russia would be an uphill task; the Ural Mountains, abundant energy resources and bitter conditions would trouble any supply line. You'd be a fool to mess with them.
While we might sit around admiring Russia's enormity, Marshall reminds us that it's not just about size but what you can do with it. Given Russia's presence in both Europe and Asia, Russian influence on both continents remains relatively limited to a few of its neighbours because of the geographical obstacles facing it, for instance, not having ports in the South. I suppose you could compare Russia to a bull in a securely-fenced field - a strong character that you treat with great respect. Still, as long as it are in the field, you can go about your daily life relatively unaffected. This is seemingly the case for Europe and Asia. It's fascinating that, whatever the size of a state, geography is the defining set of cards affecting the game of international politics.
If you are interested in International Politics, Geography or just want to broaden your knowledge for the next family quiz, I'd definitely give this a read. I shall certainly continue.
Something to watch: Sky F1 Vodcast (Ferrari Special)
Like most sporting enthusiasts, getting my fix, in times like these, has been a challenge. But Sky F1 have used their resources to effect, creating some fantastic content. This week, Ted Kravitz and Natalie Pinkham hosted a video interview with three relatively long-lasting pillars in what is usually an unstable Ferrari. Felipe Massa, Rob Smedley and Stefano Domenicali spent more than half a decade together as driver, engineer and boss, achieving 11 wins and 42 podiums. They say they are brothers. This kind of statement has become a throw-away comment but when you see them in conversation together, you'd believe it.
Today, their paths have taken them in different directions but what is great to see is their love for the sport and for Ferrari. Felipe Massa is a man from whom we can all learn. He keeps his family close, wears his heart on his sleeve and is as professional as they come. I am always impressed by Felipe’s responses to questions concerning the way he handled losing the championship by one point, at home, on the last lap to Lewis Hamilton. It's a question that inevitably comes Massa's way, and he reacts with the same grace, pride and passion that he did on that day back in 2008.
Massa’s openness demonstrates his genuine nature, uniting us in our emotional connection to F1. This is why so many of us love live sporting events. And they'll be back soon.
Link: https://youtu.be/VgbSXx926Tc
Some good news: Sport to return to the UK
It took approximately ten minutes for my last section to ring true. I said sport would be back soon - they’ll begin to return on Monday. In a week highlighting significant injustice, discrimination and ignorance that continues in our world, sporting events, while they are by no means a solution, are needed to unite people. It looks likely that Horse Racing and Snooker will be the first to return, with the Premier League set to resume in the middle of June. This is good news for domestic sports. However, international competition, as expected, will have to be more patient before it can get up and running.
For any seasons getting back underway, a major challenge that will intrigue is the fitness of the protagonists taking to centre stage for the first time in months. In many ways, athletes will be as ready as they ever have been. They’ve had a prolonged period to commit to extended programs in a consistent environment. So competitors will likely reach higher levels of physical and mental wellbeing. Despite this preparation, those in the sporting sphere continue to raise the point that nothing prepares you for battle like a battle. Formula One divers and rugby players alike have spoken about their concerns for their neck muscles when they jump back into the cars and scrums respectively.
Short seasons will also increase pressure on athletes. Fewer events taking place results in a greater emphasis come match day so it’ll be the least flustered that will yield the most impressive results. Mika Hākkinen believes that it’ll be the most experienced that will best handle this extra pressure. That being said, youth tends to adapt to new circumstances more easily. It’ll be interesting to see whether those who are young yet experienced, such as Raheem Sterling and Max Verstappen rise to the top of the pile. Bring on the competition!
Link: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/52862637
Something to listen to: Kevin Hart on the Joe Rogan experience
Joe Rogan had a great week. He signed a lucrative deal to give Spotify the exclusive rights to his podcast and he had Kevin Hart as a guest on his show. Rogan did, at least, share the latter with us. I'm not alone when I say that I love Kevin Hart. He has joined the greats of stand-up comedy, he is a CEO of his production company and most importantly, he speaks from the heart.
Yes, Kevin has made mistakes, he openly admits that. Nevertheless, his hard working and positive nature are qualities that have allowed him to overcome these challenges. Understanding anyone's road to recovery after a near-death experience is worth listening to but hearing the way that a winner, like Kevin, thinks in these moments is astounding. Furthermore, he can tell a great story, so its a pleasure to witness him recalling any one of his many anecdotes during this podcast. Whether you are interested in parenting, business or just want a laugh, there is something for everyone in this show.
Joe Rogan's ability to attract high-profile guests and get the best out of them is something that anyone in my position aspires to. It's not really a surprise that Spotify had to shell out quite a bit of cash for his services. But what does this move mean? It means that Spotify is going to have to make videos available on its service. This will likely usher music videos and interviews into existence onto the platform too. This sounds very similar to YouTube and Apple Music, two platforms that are well-established and have significantly improved over time. Spotify has invested heavily in competing with these services, and a huge audience will be watching. There will be high pressure for Rogan's effect on Spotify to work at least as well as the platforms that have already proven themselves.
I'm sad to see Rogan go in the same direction as Joe Budden. Podcasts are evidently becoming a big deal, and in a world where many are sitting at home, it's understandable. Have a listen to this one and look out for more of my podcasts soon.
Link: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-joe-rogan-experience/id360084272?i=1000475747825
Something to do: Table Tennis
What was the best purchase that I’ve made as a student? A Ready Meal? An iPad? Both great candidates but alas, no. The Best buy in my two years at university was a Table Tennis net, a couple of bats and some balls. Table Tennis is fantastic is you are competitive, want to test your coordination or just want a chat with you mate. I have spent much of the past year losing games of ping pong and enjoyed it simply because its an activity that you can do at most times while having a conversation. Much to some people’s disappointment, our flat’s kitchen was redesigned around Table Tennis, but that was its popularity as it brought us together.
And then a moment came along in which we must stay two meters apart yet we want to see our friends. With a length of more than two meters, Table Tennis is unquestionably the solution for socialising in our restricted world. So as the arrival of garden guests seems imminent, forget a barbecue, a jacuzzi or a vegetable patch. Opt for Table Tennis. It could save you a fortune, not to mention your life.
I hope that you enjoyed this update. Don’t forget to check out these pieces of content for yourself. Have a great week, stay safe, and I’ll talk to you soon.