Topics discussed in the meeting included the controversial activities of the Red Bull team, their ownership of two teams, and the undeniable supremacy of Max Verstappen since the current F1 regulations were perfected by Adrian Newey and his design team.
It is evident that a driver’s supremacy cannot be contained, as we have witnessed similar periods of dominance in the past with Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes. The same can be said for the golden years of Michael Schumacher and Ferrari, which marked the beginning of this era of F1.
Red Bull seemed invincible as a racing team until they introduced the RB20 earlier this year, which coincided with the scandal involving Christian Horner’s inappropriate messages. This embarrassing saga likely played a role in Adrian Newey’s decision to part ways with the team for which he brilliantly designed cars over the past decade, creating legends like Sebastian Vettel and now Verstappen.
Despite their overwhelming success, Domenicali suggests that things may change: “When a formidable team undergoes internal changes, it is natural for there to be fluctuations in performance. I am not making any subjective judgments, but it is reasonable to assume that the current dominance may not persist in the same way. The current season started with Red Bull and Verstappen leading the pack.
“However, I would like to emphasize one point. It is often those of us within the industry who express impatience and claim that the championship is losing its appeal. However, if we look at the numbers, a different narrative emerges. Almost every race is sold out, with an unprecedented number of sponsors and spectators.”
“Focusing solely on TV ratings inconsistencies can be misleading. This is because the way people engage with sports events, including Formula 1 Grand Prix races, has evolved. The global audience now has access to various platforms, which has significantly impacted traditional viewership,” explained Domenicali.
Regarding the Horner scandal, the Formula 1 Chief expressed that Formula 1’s position is to allow companies (in this case, the teams) to follow regulations and their own internal codes of conduct, for which they are responsible. He acknowledged there were emotional moments in this case, but overall, Formula 1 was not negatively impacted. He hopes everything will be handled correctly and requested that proper procedures be followed. However, Formula 1 cannot interfere in a case of which it has no knowledge, as it is outside its jurisdiction. The Chief stated that they will closely monitor any developments that may arise in the future.
Although Red Bull currently dominates the sport, their junior team VCARB often lags behind in the F1 field. However, with new leadership and a competitive car this season, they have improved their position. It is unlikely, but not impossible, for all four Red Bull-owned cars to finish in the top four positions in the standings or in a Grand Prix. This has led to complaints from rival F1 team bosses, such as Zak Brown of McLaren. Domenicali explained that Red Bull’s operation should be seen as two separate teams of two cars each, rather than a team of four cars. The issue of dual ownership within the Red Bull group has been under discussion for several months.
Domenicali emphasized the benefits that Red Bull brought to Formula 1 by acquiring and managing a second team. He acknowledged that decisions made in the past are clear, with Red Bull maintaining ownership of both teams. However, he acknowledged that future choices may be different and it is possible that limits may be imposed. The increase in the franchise value of each team with the growth and concentration of ownership and team votes in the F1 Commission may lead to discussions and restrictions. The issue of common parts, which teams can buy and sell, is also being considered. Domenicali believes caution is necessary when addressing this aspect, as the current balance is satisfactory. He stated that there are no indications that current regulations need to be changed.
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A major scandal occurred in the world of sports today, when a famous football player was caught in a doping scandal. The player, whose name cannot be disclosed for legal reasons, was caught in a drug test that revealed the presence of prohibited substances in his system.
The player, known for his exceptional skills and successful career, now faces serious consequences for his actions. The football federation has already announced that the player will be suspended indefinitely and will face a full investigation into the incident.
This scandal has shaken the world of sports and left fans shocked. Many wonder how such a talented player could get involved in something so detrimental to his career. The news spread quickly on social media, with fans and experts expressing their disappointment and anger towards the player.
It is still early to say what will be the impact of this scandal on the player’s career, but one thing is certain: his reputation has been tarnished and he will have to face the consequences of his actions. The sports world is in mourning for another case of doping, which raises doubts about the integrity and ethics of professional athletes.
We hope that this incident serves as a reminder to all players that anti-doping rules exist for a reason and must be respected. Sports should be a fair and clean field, where athletes can compete on equal terms. Unfortunately, cases like this remind us that not everyone plays by the rules.
Now, we must wait and see how this story will unfold in the coming days. Meanwhile, fans and sports lovers continue to wonder how such a talented player could get involved in something so harmful to his career. The only certainty is that this scandal will leave a mark on the history of sports and serve as a reminder that no one is above the rules.
