Formula 1’s popularity in the United States has surged dramatically, particularly since Liberty Media took ownership, evidenced by the record-breaking attendance at the United States Grand Prix in Austin. This growth is partly attributed to the Netflix docuseries Drive to Survive, which has significantly boosted viewership figures across the nation. The recent United States Grand Prix was broadcast on F1 TV and ABC, a terrestrial television channel. However, many fans watching on ABC experienced a curtailed broadcast that cut short crucial post-race moments.
According to F1 expert Peter Windsor, speaking on his YouTube livestream, this abrupt ending to the US GP television coverage on ABC left many viewers deeply frustrated.
Peter Windsor Criticizes US GP TV Broadcast Decision
Windsor highlighted that the US network chose to end its live broadcast immediately after the race concluded. This decision prevented fans from witnessing the immediate reactions and interviews with race winner Charles Leclerc, as well as title contenders Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, following what was a thrilling and closely contested race.
“I have a few friends in the US and all of them are irate that the live TV coverage of the US GP from Austin was cut off before the podium ceremony, so they didn’t get the interviews,” Windsor stated. He further emphasized the potential negative impact of such broadcasting choices on F1’s burgeoning fanbase in the US, saying, “If F1 is trying to make it big in America, that is a really bad thing and I’m just amazed that happened.”
Charles Leclerc celebrates his victory at the US Grand Prix as seen in a photo taken from a low angle, emphasizing his jubilant expression and the team celebrating behind him, suitable for illustrating news about the United States Grand Prix.
Taylor Swift’s Pivotal Role in the United States Grand Prix’s Revival
Typically, Formula 1 Grand Prix events offer additional entertainment beyond the race itself, tailored to each venue. The Circuit of the Americas introduced the ‘Super Stage’ in 2015, featuring performances from major artists like Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Ed Sheeran, and more recently, Eminem.
Back in 2016, the United States Grand Prix faced financial instability due to Formula 1’s then-waning appeal in the US market, predating the Drive to Survive phenomenon. To revitalize the event, organizers made a strategic decision to book an artist with broad appeal. Taylor Swift’s performance, her only US show that year, proved to be a masterstroke. It attracted a diverse new audience to Formula 1 and provided the critical boost needed to ensure the US Grand Prix’s long-term viability. The 2023 event saw a remarkable attendance of 432,000, and expectations are for even greater numbers in 2024, demonstrating the sustained growth and popularity of Formula 1 in the United States.
