American Grand Prix promoter Bobby Epstein recently He spoke honestly About ticket sales for the race. The specialist was surprised to note that the sprint format did not improve the relevant numbers.
Austin is one of 6 venues that will host the Sprint format in 2023. Compared to the original format, this means one additional time trial and sprint, but fewer free practice sessions.
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Formula 1 leaders brought drag racing to the sport in order to hold at least one major event on each of the three race days of the weekend, and according to them, this should be reflected in ticket sales, among other things. However, the first president of COTA revealed that here or there sprints, the novelty was not successful and this fact did not attract important buyers.
“It didn’t help, which is a big surprise to us,” Epstein revealed. – We have to decide what can move people so much that they visit on the weekend. Those who decide this way, most likely decide to purchase tickets because of their love for the sport. “I think it is still questionable how the speedway will be judged by the fans, we still have to experiment.”
Epstein also added that according to some, the dominance of Max Verstappen and Red Bull could have affected weekend interest, and according to him, this has been closed.
“This can only be known after Sunday’s race, after comparing this year’s data with previous years. If this Sunday is as strong as last year, the reason in question can be ruled out. Why would Sunday be so strong if the maximum factor is involved? I think we have passed this “The test, but Saturday this year was weaker than last year, so that’s the only thing that changed.”
Epstein concluded by saying that due to the lack of sufficient evidence, it is not certain that a Formula 1 race will be held in Kuta in 2024.
