The Lost Charm of F1 Racing

There was a time I was addicted to F1 racing. It was between ’98 and ’01 (courtesy: proliferation of cable networks in India). After all, who wouldn’t love to watch cars that could go 300 – 350 kmph (200+ mph) when the reality out on Chennai streets was more like 60 kmph (38 mph, that’s a generous estimate, as many Chennai-ites would testify). The sight of a sleek, aerodynamic marvel burning the tarmac on the straights and the roar of the engines signified the conquests of automotive giants around the world. The drivers in their special suits littered with a slew of sponsor logos, were icons to be revered. The competition was hot between Mika Hakkinen and Michael Schumacher.

Fast forward to 2006, Ferrari has dominated the Constructors’ Championships and Michael, the driver’s championships from 2001 – 2004. After the first 2 races of a season, you can virtually predict the winner by just knowing some variables. Tires, Engine and Pit Strategy. The driver is almost a non-factor. The best machine gives the driver the best chance to post a great qualifying time and secure pole position. Once there, negotiate the first corner without incident (or accident) and you are on your way. To me, it is a machine-dominated sport and Michael’s dominance is hardly surprising. Upset victories are virtually non-existent. How many times have Minardis even finished in the top 6 over the last few years? I wonder how successful would Michael be driving a Minardi? Not very, I would venture to say. Just to draw a simple parallel, I’m sure Tiger Woods would have won the British Open whether he used his clubs or some player from the top 50.The equipment should be a side-kick, not a hero.

It is also pitiful that each team designates one of their drivers to be a primary driver. For instance, Barichello is contractually obligated to finish behind his teammate (and primary driver), M Schumacher, no matter what. This is a killer and absolutely takes the competitive spirit out of the sport. Borders on match-fixing, only officially approved! Why go ahead with season at all? Why rob the fans?

One thing that I always wonder about, is how many gallons of fuel these races (NASCAR included) consume? Now, I am no expert, but even I know that the mileage of an F1 car cannot be more than 4 mpg. Regardless of the green design of these engines, it still uses gasoline and it emits greenhouse gases. The western world should stop rapping the Third World countries for using more fuel and failing to stop pollution. “Practise, then Preach” should be the message to the West. Though I understand that these races and their fuel consumption may be a drop in the ocean compared to fuel consumption of a country, races have high visibility among the peoples and hence any positive message will have a great effect on the Third World.

Something to think about!