A commentator cheers through the mic, echoing throughout the streets of Monaco as Charles Leclerc, a fan favorite in Formula 1, crosses the checkered flag in first place (P1) at the Monaco Grand Prix. The fans are roaring in the stands, watching an exciting race featuring Leclerc, but are the cheers roaring for the adrenaline rush of the race or just because their favorite driver won?
Formula 1 (F1) is the highest level of international racing for open-wheel, single-seater racing cars. A total of 10 teams and 20 drivers from around the world make up the current Formula 1 grid, with each squad fielding two cars. With many drivers on the grid, the idea that F1 is popularized mainly because of the attractiveness of the drivers or the actual race itself is a controversial topic that can spark conflicting opinions among fans. As a fan of F1 myself, the primary focus of the sport should be on the race, not solely on the drivers.
Many fans take an interest in F1 not just for the race itself, but because of the perception of the driver’s looks. Notably, Leclerc, a driver for Ferrari, is known as the “Prince of Monaco” due to his charming appearance, and Kimi Antonelli, a driver for Mercedes, has been gaining popularity because of his charisma and handsome image.
Although the drivers bring a lot of publicity to the sport, the focus should be on the race itself and the exciting moments that make it engaging. This raises the question of whether the driver’s talents and efforts are being undervalued despite their racing skills. In contrast to their looks, my favorite drivers are Carlos Sainz from Williams and Lewis Hamilton from Ferrari, due to their intense racing on whichever circuit they are on. Their unique driving styles make the race fun and exhilarating. Sainz is nicknamed “Smooth Operator” for his clean and calm driving style with impressive overtakes, and Hamilton’s signature “Hammer Time” for his remarkable performance when he needs to push his hardest to go as fast as possible. With these skilled drivers on the grid, the race is more captivating.
The reason F1 drivers have been gaining attention for their appearances may be partially attributable to social media and their unique fashion style. With many platforms that F1 uses to advertise the sport, the drivers are the face and highlight of each company.
According to the official F1 website, a survey indicated that 55 percent of fans find the race the most appealing, 48 percent stated speed was the captivating element and 34 percent found the drivers the highlight of the sport. From a survey of 41 students, 54 percent are more interested in the race, while 46 percent are more interested in the drivers. True fans should be interested in the sport because of the inherent excitement and action-packed races.
With the adrenaline-pumping races, the focus of the F1 sport should not be on the driver’s appearance, but rather the action that is happening on the circuit. Fans should be captivated by the skills showcased and the exciting races that make F1 the interesting sport it is.
