Sainz: F1 race broadcasts too focused on girlfriends, celebs

Sainz Critiques F1 Broadcasts for Celebrity Focus

Carlos Sainz has voiced his frustration over Formula 1 broadcasts, arguing that they place too much emphasis on the reactions of driver girlfriends and celebrities, often at the expense of showcasing the on-track action. Following a lacklustre race at the Singapore Grand Prix, the Spaniard highlighted that key moments of his spectacular drive from the back of the grid to 10th place were overshadowed by frequent cutaways to celebrities and family members.

Sainz Speaks Out on Broadcast Issues

Sainz’s comments came during an interview with Spain’s El Partidazo de COPE. He explained that while occasional glimpses of famous faces can add to the broadcast, they should not detract from the race’s competitiveness.

Focus on the Action

Reflecting on the recent race, Sainz noted, “Last weekend they didn’t show any of the four or five overtakes I did at the end. Nor did they show Fernando’s pursuit of Lewis… they missed a lot of things.” This highlights his concern that broadcasters prioritize entertainment value over delivering crucial race developments.

A Need for Balance

Sainz suggested that Formula 1 assess how it balances the spectacle against the sport itself. “The other [thing] is fine but don’t lose sight of the main thing,” he stated. His remarks raise important questions about the direction of F1 coverage, especially as the sport continues to grow in popularity.

Celebrity Distraction in F1

In light of Sainz’s concerns, it’s evident that excessive focus on celebrities is becoming a trend in sports broadcasting, with viewers sometimes missing pivotal moments. “It’s becoming a bit of a trend,” Sainz said, noting that while audiences may have once enjoyed watching celebrities’ reactions, the constant cutaways can detract from the racing dynamics.

The Paddock Experience

With so many VIPs flooding the paddock, Sainz revealed that navigating through the area has become increasingly challenging. “We move by bike or scooter because if you don’t, you just can’t get around,” he quipped, illustrating the growing spectacle surrounding F1 races.

Looking Ahead to the U.S. Grand Prix

The debate around broadcast priorities comes as F1 heads towards the U.S. Grand Prix at Austin’s Circuit of the Americas on October 19. As the sport seeks to engage a broader audience, Sainz’s comments could spark discussions on how to best balance the thrill of the race with the attractions of celebrity culture.