Sainz criticizes TV approach in F1: More celebrities than on-track action?

Carlos Sainz Criticizes Formula 1 Television Coverage

Spanish driver Carlos Sainz has expressed his dissatisfaction with the way Formula 1 races are broadcast, pointing out an excessive focus on the reactions of personalities and companions of the drivers during key moments of the competition. Sainz, after his outstanding comeback in the Singapore Grand Prix, where he advanced from last position to tenth place, lamented that his performance was not properly highlighted in the live broadcast. The television coverage, according to the driver, focused on other aspects, leaving aside the excitement of the race. Furthermore, Sainz criticized that the broadcast did not focus on Fernando Alonso’s fight to catch Lewis Hamilton in the final laps, preferring to show the battle for second place between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris. While television networks control the coverage they offer during live sessions and the race, the images from the track are directed by a single Formula 1 provider. Sainz believes that it is an outdated practice to frequently show the reactions of family members, partners, and celebrities in the garage.

The pilot declared to El Partidazo de COPE:

“It’s becoming a trend, which should have worked at the time when people were interested in seeing our girlfriends, famous people on television, the reactions… I understand that if there is an overtaking, a very tense moment in the race, it is understandable that the production team wants to show a reaction if they have seen that it has worked in the past… but [they should only do it] if the competition is respected and the important moments of the race are always shown. Last weekend they didn’t show any of the four or five overtakes I made at the end. They didn’t show Fernando’s pursuit of Lewis either… many things were missed”.

Carlos Sainz

Sainz suggests that Formula 1 should reconsider where to draw the line between sport and spectacle. “The other thing is fine, but don’t lose sight of the main thing. For me, they go a bit overboard showing celebrities and girlfriends,” he added. “Sometimes there are so many VIPs in the paddock that you can’t even walk. We move around by bike or scooter [in the paddock] because otherwise, you just can’t move.” Formula 1 will continue with the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin on October 19.