FIA told F1 needs more US races by Steiner despite new Las Vegas GP

F1 preview: A lap at the United States Grand Prix

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Guenther Steiner has called for the FIA to include more US-based Grands Prix to the Formula 1 calendar, despite the addition of Las Vegas in 2023. The race in Sin City was speculated for some time, and has now been confirmed as part of the schedule for next season.

This means the United States will host three races in 2023, alongside both Austin and Miami. The interest in the sport in the States has skyrocketed in recent years, with the hit Netflix series, ‘Drive to Survive’ said to be one of the key contributors.

And this popularity has been recognised by F1 chiefs, but Haas boss Steiner still wants more. Even with the addition of Las Vegas for 2023, the 57-year-old still believes three races on US soil is ‘not enough’.

He said, as quoted by motorsportweek.com: “I would say the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is for hardcore fans. They’ve been here now for 10 years and everybody loves to go there. It’s a great race track, great event and a great city.

JUST IN: George Russell praised for avoiding being ‘crushed’ by Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes

“Miami is Miami, we had a lot of people this year, more than a lot, and it’s another great event but it was completely different, it was like a big festival. I don’t know what Las Vegas will be but it will be big as well. 

“We always have to think that the US is a big country and to have three races, it’s still not enough, I believe. There is something for everybody and I think each event has something in particular about it. Two of them have done a good job and I’m sure Las Vegas will do a good job as well.”

America’s involvement and investment in F1 in recent years has been no secret. Steiner went on to praise Circuit of The Americas – home of the US Grand Prix – chairman Bobby Epstein for his efforts in expanding the sport across the States. He went on: “When the US Grand Prix in Austin was first held, it was something completely new.

DON’T MISS:
McLaren chief pens FIA letter accusing Red Bull of ‘cheating’ in Max Verstappen title win
‘Bent the rules!’ FIA urged to hand Hamilton 2021 F1 Championship by readers
McLaren boss claims axed Daniel Ricciardo could have driven for two F1 teams in 2023

“Formula 1 hadn’t been in the States for a long time and there were a lot of naysayers saying it wouldn’t work. Thanks to Bobby Epstein, who kept on pushing, as it’s now a fan favourite after 10 years. 

“Formula 1 without Austin is difficult to think about – Austin has become a classic. It has brought a lot to the fans as they can go to a great event, this season with 400,000 expected spectators and for the rest of the world, it’s great racing in the States.”

Source: Read Full Article