Already in 2019, senior officials of the They decided to hold a season opening event in Australia to kick off the new season. All the pilots attended the show, which took place on a large stage in Federation Square in Melbourne, which was also free, and which was a resounding success.
For some reason this was never repeated, probably due to the lack of racing fans at the inaugural venues of And which prevented it from becoming a big event.
NOW, F1 saved this event which, in 2025, will also be the official presentation of the designs of the 10 teams present on the grid.which will be held at the O2 in London on February 18.
It's a great idea on paper, a way to attract fans to a downtown area and generate interest during the winter. It's also a good barometer of the value fans currently place on Formula 1.
The 20 drivers and 10 team managers will be present at the eventwhich will kick off F1's 75th anniversary, in what is billed as “an incredible evening” during which “fans will be immersed in the drama and spectacle of F1, while joining the teams for unveil their decorations for 2025”.
Yeah , Williams either The Haas F1 Team They are content with the limited global media coverage they will receive – given that they are facing bigger teams who will likely attract attention, especially with Lewis Hamilton as pilot of Ferrari for the first time – it will be perfect, but it is very clear that maybe not what the sponsors want.
Teams usually choose a date during the preseason so as not to coincide with their rivals. This means that each team has the opportunity to unveil its car at an “exclusive” time, giving valuable exposure to the brand and valuable media time to its drivers and team principal.
On the other hand, featuring all 10 teams in a single event will reduce this impact, unless they host a separate event, such as a in a circuit, for example.
Lance Stroll, Aston Martin AMR24
Photo by: Aston Martin
Ultimately, the credit goes to Formula 1 for creating such an event, but on the other hand, charging supporters between 70 and 136 euros per ticket could pose a problem.
It's understandable that F1 is trying to capitalize on its growing number of fans, particularly among younger people. F1 merchandising is already common on the streets and at this price – a quarter of the price of a ticket to see F1 – it offers fans the chance to see their heroes in a more accessible venue. But at around 100 euros, is it worth it?
Organizers have promised “top class entertainment and special presenters” and, in any case, F1's current popularity is such that it is likely to sell out.
The older generation will probably be shocked by the price, but the reality is that that's not the audience F1 is targeting with this event. It's aimed more at younger fans, and if they're willing to pay – and enjoy it – what's the problem?
