Has Social Media ruined F1?

By Ella Keene

How has social media reshaped driver personas? 

Formula 1 is constantly changing, we’ve seen it this season with the new regulations, but it’s not just the make-up of a car that is different than it used to be. The relationship with fans has changed immensely, from social media to documentary series, there’s so much more we’re able to see now compared to when F1 was in its early days.

In the early 90s we had drivers at the top of their game with the most dramatic events of the season being accusations of cheating because of a crash. Fans were able to watch a race from the side of the track and drivers were able to voice their opinions through the news. 

Compared to now drivers can share individual sponsorships, parts of their relationships and team deals on their personal social media and fans can watch remotely to discuss all of their f1 related questions whenever and wherever they want.

The unlimited access has completely changed the way fans interact with the sport. 

Not only does it change the way drivers interact with fans, but also how they speak in interviews and the press conferences each week. 

Last year we saw Mclaren’s papaya rules being the topic of many press conferences with media and social media creating a rivalry that may or may not have occurred between the drivers. The narratives created across social media could be heightening the driver’s awareness of their own behaviour, moving away from the previous carefree attitudes displayed by the previous generation.

Despite the difficulties that may arise from the increase in broadcasting drivers and teams, it also means the sport is so much more accessible. Whether it’s putting races on a streaming service to watch from thousands of miles away or highlights on YouTube – fans are getting so much more of an experience. 

Whether it stems from the setting up of garages, pre-race routines or personal relationships – fans see much more than they used to across the board. Making the sport so much bigger than it has ever been before.