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Current F1 calendar in conflict with Formula 1 initiative
- Sandy van Wijngaarden
Formula 1 is doing a lot with social impact. For example, they have the 'We Race As One' initiative. In 2020, its focus was on the COVID-19 pandemic and inequality. Currently, the focus of this initiative is on sustainability, diversity and inclusiveness and community. Yet the current F1 calendar does not seem very sustainable.
The current F1 calendar demands a lot from drivers and team members. This is because the calendar is not only widely spread in kilometres, but it also constantly moves between continents and time zones. The second part of the season, after the summer break, is especially tough.
The F1 circus moved from Las Vegas to Abu Dhabi last week. This makes it difficult for drivers to realise which time zone they are actually in. It does help that the sessions in Abu Dhabi are driven a bit later in the day, so there is at least a good night's sleep in it for everyone.
Not very sustainable
Max Verstappen was asked in the press conference about what he thinks of the current calendar. Verstappen indicated that the way things are going now, it is not viable for the future, especially with the fact that next year's schedule includes a triple-header with Las Vegas, Qatar and Abu Dhabi. ''It's a little bit odd that we are on the other side of the world before getting here. Especially when you're talking about sustainability, it's probably not very sustainable. Not only for the emissions, but also for the human body.''
The calendar for 2024 is already fixed, but Verstappen hopes something can be changed for the future. 'It's already a lot of races, but we need to do a better job with placing the Grands Prix. I think they are doing that at the start of the year, so that will help already', said the Dutchman.