Formula 1 CEO Chase Carey believes the promotion of the sport’s drivers as “heroes” is why last month’s German Grand Prix got a much better reception.
With F1 only visiting Hockenheim biannually it was the first time the American owners had visited the iconic circuit and speaking to people in the paddock, Carey claims the consensus he got was the sport is “more fun” than it was in 2016.
What was notable was the larger crowd which filled the Stadium section, combined with a mix of red for Sebastian Vettel and orange for Max Verstappen, and it the attraction of those names which the CEO consider crucial.
“Formula 1 is about heroes who spark the imagination, kind of like in the movies,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“You have strong brands and important teams, but in the end, it’s all about the drivers as the main characters. Max Verstappen is a hero because of his driving skills, that’s something that touches and inspires people.”
Liberty Media’s efforts to close the gap between teams, drivers and the fans is another reason, with attendances rising at races around the world.
“It’s too early to celebrate,” Carey continued. “Still, we’re on the right path to improve the show both on and off the track. We’ve seen a couple of good races and the competition at the top is very close.”
In an ideal scenario, the F1 chief also hopes he can draw on the pulling power of one iconic motorsport name making its way through the ranks.
“The role of Michael Schumacher is still big in F1 nowadays. He is and remains an icon for the sport,” he said.
“It should be easier for young drivers to move on to Formula 1, it would be special if [his son] Mick also had that possibility.”
Currently, the 19-year-old competes in European F3, recently winning his first race at Spa Francorchamps, a circuit his father made plenty of history on.
Talking to Mobil 1 The Grid, Schumacher Jr. spoke about the pressure he faces to live up to his surname.
“To be honest, here I’m a bit more focused on what I’m doing on track, so I don’t really notice it too much,” he said.
“For sure, my goal was always F1, and it’s still my goal. Now we’re doing one step after the other. I’m looking forward to it.”