Ah, yes. That same old debate surrounding practice sessions is back and it looks as if F1 bosses have some "profitable" plans lined up for the future race weekend format.
With the ever increasing popularity of the sport, F1 CEO; Stefano Domenicali, believes that all three practice sessions need to be made more engaging for the fans. That, or should be scrapped altogether as fans supposedly, "don't like them." Either way, could changes be on the way?
For some time now money seems to be the main focus for F1 and it's more than likely the reason behind the proposed practice session changes. Practice usually takes place during two sessions on a Friday and a session on the Saturday morning. However, ticket sales are not as popular for these days compared to race day and what Domenicali see's is that with increased action and fan engagement on what would be practice days, tickets may be more likely to sell thus resulting in a profitable profit.
What we need to remember though is that racing drivers, in any motorsport category, are very limited in the amount of practice they get before each race. Is it totally wise that practice gets shunned completely? Try telling a gymnast, for example, that they only have access to their equipment every other weekend? It's pretty much the same.
However, many current F1 drivers seem to like the idea of less practice sessions. Williams driver; Logan Sargaent, deemed three practice sessions "unnecessary" whereas current Red Bull reserve driver; Daniel Ricciardo says "I'd prefer no practices." So, are the practice sessions not as important as they seem?
Quite possibly. Let's look at the Saturday sprint race. It was introduced at a select few races in 2021, which carried on into 2022 and now 2023. With one practice session dropped and a "sprint" race added, which would build the grid for the main race the following day, there's been very little
effect on driver performance on the Sunday - race day. This pretty much backs the opinions of the drivers that three practice sessions are just too many.
But what are my thoughts, exactly?
Well, to begin with dropping every practice session may not be the best idea. The point of it is that gives the driver time to learn. Learn the car, learn the setup, learn the track. Without it, things may get crazy but I suppose that is what Domenicali is looking for - the entertainment value.
On the other hand, three sessions are a bit extreme. Although practice makes perfect, the thought of going into a race in the unknown is kind of fun. It's a challenge for drivers and teams alike. I may have just completely contradicted myself. Nevertheless, one practice session is sufficient enough, in my opinion. And, as for fans, I don't think they mind practice. I like it, anyway.
However, F1 needs to calm it down a bit on the "money" side. I won't go into that too much now but they can't keep changing things to heighten the entertainment value and make a profit. Despite the sports new found popularity, it is, in some way, killing the sport. And, unfortunately, scrapping every practice session may just add to that. I'm sure I'll write an article on that someday. But, what's your opinion on practice? Should it stay or should it go?
Comments