Observations from the Ground at Formula 1 Races

Covering a Formula 1 race during the week can reveal various themes, some predictable, and others quite unexpected.

Take last year’s United States Grand Prix, for example. The week kicked off with discussions around McLaren and the “repercussions” stemming from a teammate clash between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri at the previous race. Norris had damaged his front wing after colliding with Piastri on the first lap, causing Piastri to drop from third to fifth place.

When the teams arrived in Austin, the spotlight was on the aftermath of that incident and how McLaren would manage racing between the two drivers. Yet, as the week progressed, attention shifted to Max Verstappen’s surprising comeback. Initially doubtful about his championship chances, Verstappen gained confidence after securing victories in both the F1 Sprint Race and the 2025 United States Grand Prix.

Now, this brings us to the 2026 race. While much of the week focused on Kimi Antonelli and his slim prospects of clinching his first F1 Drivers’ Championship in Austin, an additional recurring theme revealed itself leading into race day.

This was the alarming issue of online abuse directed at drivers and other figures in motorsport via social media.

During a media session on Thursday, Franco Colapinto expressed his concerns, highlighting a recent video where he urged fans to cease their online attacks on fellow drivers.

Colapinto remarked, “I’m always grateful for the support from my fans, but every sport has its negative aspect.” He reflected on how the harmful comments could hinder athletes’ performance, asserting, “It’s crossed some lines lately.”

He pointed out that even his mechanics and engineers, devoted members of his team, received a barrage of negativity, which weighed heavily on him.

Colapinto’s sentiments echoed later when Verstappen also addressed the situation during the day. After his racing team faced a penalty in Portugal, following a collision caused by Chris Lulham, Verstappen condemned the wave of abuse Lulham endured online.

“People can say whatever they want online, and, for me, I don’t care if it’s targeted at me,” Verstappen stated. “But when it’s directed at a young driver not used to such pressure, it becomes quite extreme.”

On a related note, I found myself once again in FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s office before the United States Grand Prix, reflecting on a previous interview I had the privilege of conducting with him last year.

We touched on various topics, starting with the problematic online abuse faced by individuals involved in motorsport.

FIA President on Social Media Abuse

“This is a sickness and a plague,” were President Ben Sulayem’s words regarding the ongoing media abuse towards motorsport personalities. He elaborated that this online barrage against drivers is an issue unlike anything seen before.

“This online abuse is a serious problem, and that’s where we need your help,” he emphasized, explaining that while the FIA is already initiating measures like the ‘United Against Online Abuse’ campaign, more needs to be done. The coalition aims to unite governments, sports organizations, and tech companies to devise strategies against digital harassment.

In our discussion, I also asked what more could be done from the media and tech companies. Verstappen’s sentiments echoed with calls for greater accountability.

“For Pierre Gasly to receive 13,000 death threats,” Ben Sulayem reiterated, “is unacceptable.” He emphasized the urgent need for action, mentioning instances where volunteers involved in the sport have faced threats.

He underscored the collective responsibility to combat online hostility, stressing that everyone—from drivers to fans to media—must take a stand against toxic behavior.

Ben Sulayem also highlighted the importance of ensuring a nurturing environment within the sport, pointing to the need for messages from team principals and drivers to encourage positive interactions among fans.

The Shift Back to V8 Engines in F1

A significant topic has been the new power units introduced this season. F1 has seen major technical changes, moving closer to a balance between battery power and combustion engines.

The reviews have been mixed, sparking a call from fans for a return to V8 engines. Notably, President Ben Sulayem himself has echoed this sentiment, hinting at possible changes in the near future.

When I inquired if there would be news regarding the V8 engines, he confidently declared, “Oh, yes, I mean, the V8 is coming.”

When I asked why this shift is crucial for F1, he explained that simplicity in engine technology is essential—not only for driver performance but also for maintaining excitement. “Drivers should focus on driving, not managing complex systems,” he asserted.

Growing F1’s Global Presence

Formula 1 is broadening its global footprint. With the announcement of new races, including an African Grand Prix in Rwanda, and other venues like a street circuit in Madrid, the sport continues to grow. Additionally, an emphasis on expanding into markets like China and India remains a priority.

However, the expansion must not come at the expense of established fan bases. Balancing the interests of traditional fans with newcomers requires careful attention, according to President Ben Sulayem. He mentioned that each locale offers a unique audience experience, and it’s vital to ensure everyone can enjoy the event in their own way.

Accessibility is, and always has been, a key focus, especially when it comes to grassroots motorsport. He discussed the pressing need to provide more opportunities for aspiring drivers to engage in karting, emphasizing it as the foundation of the sport’s future stability.

“We need to invest in grassroots,” he urged. “It’s a matter of sustainability for our future.”

He concluded by summarizing his vision for the FIA’s mission: fostering fairness, safety, and growth in motorsport. When asked about his definition of success, he circled back to enhancing accessibility to the sport.

“If we can reposition the FIA to be more accessible while making it affordable, that’s success,” he said, adding that building strong relationships among all parties involved is crucial for the sport’s continued success.