Sainz agrees with Alonso in criticizing F1's fixation on celebrities.

Sainz agrees with Alonso in criticizing F1's fixation on celebrities.

      "It’s turning into a bit of a trend"

      Carlos Sainz has joined Fernando Alonso in criticizing the television coverage of Formula 1, claiming the sport is emphasizing celebrity reactions over actual racing action. In an interview with Spanish radio show El Partidazo de COPE, the Williams driver expressed that F1 has gone too far in its emphasis on glamorous visuals and paddock guests instead of presenting significant racing moments. "It’s becoming a bit of a trend that seems to be working for them - showcasing our girlfriends and famous individuals on TV, the reactions," Sainz remarked.

      "I can understand showing a reaction during an overtake or a tense moment, but last weekend they didn’t cover any of the four or five overtakes I made at the end, nor Fernando’s pursuit of Lewis. They missed a lot of significant moments." Sainz pointed out that the focus has shifted too much. "The other elements are fine – as long as the main action isn’t overlooked," he continued.

      "In my opinion, they even go too far with the celebrities and brides. Sometimes, there are so many VIPs in the paddock that it’s hard to navigate. We have to use bikes or scooters because otherwise, it’s just impossible to get around." The Spaniard noted the significant change in the atmosphere of F1’s paddock. "Ten or fifteen years ago, the paddock was lacking any real atmosphere – but now it’s full of it. I prefer it this way, but we need to remind people that those present are working."

      Sainz also mentioned that he finds the pre-race environment to be overwhelming. "I get a bit stressed in the paddock due to the number of people asking for photos," he said. "On Sundays, I don’t enjoy walking around because I want to remain focused and alone. My mother tells me to smile more, but I’m just trying to isolate myself and concentrate."

Sainz agrees with Alonso in criticizing F1's fixation on celebrities.

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Sainz agrees with Alonso in criticizing F1's fixation on celebrities.

Formula 1 | Carlos Sainz has supported Fernando Alonso's critique of the television coverage in Formula 1, claiming that the sport is giving more importance to celebrity reactions (…)