Kunal Shah
If there’s one circuit that can possibly afford to host two Formula 1 races in 2020, it’s Zandvoort? Two Dutch GPs could be a suitable replacement for the Chinese GP should it go missing from the 2020 F1 calendar altogether.
The Corona-virus has led to the postponement of the Heineken Chinese Grand Prix. Yes, there’s some irony in the disappointment. But for Liberty Media, could this be an opportunity to turn race promoter? Can they host a ‘private’ Grand Prix in place of China just so that we have 22 races this year? Let’s remember that there’s money to lose if the calendar is reduced to 21 races in 2020. If not China, where would you like to see Formula 1 race twice at this season? We got interesting responses from our listeners, the most obvious answer being Spa. But is the Dutch GP the only one that can actually afford two races in a season? Yes, modern Formula 1 cars haven’t raced there yet, so the result of how good the race can be at Zandvoort is unknown. But the reference here is to the financial viability.
Also in this episode of the Inside Line F1 Podcast – are the Strolls considering to host a Stroll Grand Prix at a Stroll Racing Circuit to replace China? If the Strolls aren’t of much interest to you, here’s more – Has Formula 1 moved on from Fernando Alonso or will he get a second shot in the sport? How’s it that Sebastian Vettel still commands a towering fee despite his repeated mistakes? Tune in!
(Season 2020, Episode 05)
Here’s what’s in store for you in this episode:
0:00-3:00 – The Heineken Chinese Grand Prix has been postponed due to the Corona-virus 😉 Let’s remember, Liberty Media makes money by hosting 22 races instead of 21 this season. Would insurance cover for Formula 1’s loss of race-hosting fees from the Chinese promoters?
3:00-6:00 – We advice the Russian promoters on how they could’ve handled a swap of race with China; just so that we get 22 Formula 1 races – but, instead of China, where would you like Formula 1 to race twice at in 2020?
6:00-9:00 – Let’s race twice this year in Spa? Can the second race at Spa be a night race? What about bringing Germany back? Or let’s race at any circuit, but in reverse. Lots of suggestions from our listeners & our own list!
9:00-12:00 – Should Liberty Media turn race promoter & host a ‘private’ Formula 1 Grand Prix to fill in for China’s slot? We discuss this radical solution. If not Liberty Media, can the Strolls and host a Stroll Grand Prix at a Stroll Racing Circuit?
12:00-15:00 – Does it surprise you too that despite all his mistakes and fumbles Sebastian Vettel still commands the big bucks in Formula 1? Also, Mclaren’s randomness around their return to winning in the sport.
15:00-18:00 – Does Formula 1 need Fernando Alonso…? We’re split in our answer. Kunal believes that Formula 1 has moved on from Alonso while Mithila hopes that Formula 1 gives the Spaniard a second chance. What’s your bet? Bet on different sports with BetIndia.
18:00-21:00 – What corporate companies can learn from Formula 1 teams about real-time decision making and strategy. We review an interesting book called Formula X
