Karting must become more affordable for the wider population, argues Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The FIA President has outlined a clear plan which he believes will grow motorsport and make it more accessible.
Despite the growth in F1’s popularity in recent years, this rise has primarily been measured in terms of viewership. There are other areas, however, where the sport can become more fan-friendly.
Perhaps the biggest issue in racing is the expense, which makes pursuing a career unattainable for many people.
The term “pay driver” has been coined to describe F1 drivers who rely primarily on sponsorship or financial means to keep their seats.
Although all drivers require financial support to further their careers, the fact this term is even present within Formula 1 suggests there is a real problem.
Ben Sulayem has identified this issue, revealing his plan to improve the situation:
“What is the solution to the problem? Affordable cars!
“Affordable entry-level cars. Who pays 250,000-300,000 for a ten-year-old to race for a season?
“Nobody can afford it. It’s for the rich. So what is my job?
“I have to find a solution,” Sulayem told Motorsport Magazin.
In many ways, money is what separates motorsport from several other popular sports.
Football, Tennis, Basketball and Cricket – among the most popular sports in the world – are far more accessible to the wider population.
© Photo4 / LaPresse
05/07/2013- Nurburg, Germany
Sport
Grand Prix Formula One Germany 2013
In the pic: FIA flag
For Formula 1 to further cultivate and grow its following, racing cannot remain something which the masses can only sit and watch.
The FIA President has a draft “intended for the regions of China, Africa, South America and Asia” to make karting more affordable.
Although the impact of this proposal is difficult to predict, it certainly seems to be going in the right direction.
Whilst changes to F1 itself are critical to its growth, Sulayem’s commentary is a reminder that all areas of motorsport can improve.
After all, it is Formula 1’s DNA to relentlessly improve and develop.
