The popularity of F1 has seen an upward spiral for the past few years thanks to its global reach and media coverage that has taken the world by storm.
A new study by Nielsen Sports, released recently, highlights F1’s growing popularity, particularly in Saudi Arabia and across the Middle East. According to a Nielsen Sports report, the sport’s global fanbase has surpassed 750 million, reflecting a growth of 50 million since 2021, driven by increasing interest in the Middle East.
However, the high cost of tickets has resulted in most loyal fans, especially those from the lower working class, being unable to attend the race weekends. The seven-time F1 world champion, Lewis Hamilton, has opened up on the discussion, urging the authorities to lower the prices and make the sport accessible to all types of audiences.
“The more eyeballs on this sport, it’s not a bad thing. But we always need to make sure that it’s accessible—so it’s not too far out of reach for people that work very hard for their money but cannot afford to get to the race weekend,” Hamilton said.
As the only driver of color on the grid, the former McLaren driver also called for an inclusive environment in F1 which would allow people from all backgrounds and diversities to feel an integral part of the sport. “We’ve got a lot of work to do to make sure that the place continues to be more inclusive and that people feel comfortable in the environment. And that people who are hired can sustain and actually keep a job,” he added.
The 39-year-old is also the founder of the Hamilton Commission which investigates and works on improving the environment of F1 in order to make the sport welcoming. The project works toward the examination of minority groups in the sport and the barriers they face while entering the industry.
Hamilton finished the 2024 season in 7th position with 223 points, his lowest points haul since his arrival at the Silver Arrows in 2013. The Britt is now all set to join the Scuderia Ferrari at the start of the 2025 season and would be hopeful to drive a car that would help him challenge for his elusive 8th world championship.
Read More: Formula 1 Sees Rise In Popularity in Middle East, Female Interest Increasing
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
