03/04/2014
NEWS STORY
A survey run by Ferrari following the Australian Grand Prix reveals that 83% of those that took part are disappointed with the new format.
According to the Italian team: "The poll which began a few days ago on ferrari.com to sound out people's opinion on the show put on by the new Formula 1, has come to an end with over 50,000 fans expressing an opinion.
"83% are disappointed with the new format, dismissing it mainly because of the drivers being forced to lift off to save fuel. In addition, the fans don't like the noise from the new engines and are confused by rules that are too complicated.
"Interesting to note that the "no" vote increased dramatically after the Malaysian Grand Prix," the Maranello outfit continues. "The most vociferous in their opinions were the Italians, British, French and Australians, these countries having long links to Formula 1. But there were also plenty of votes from large countries such as the United States and India."
Quite what the teams, drivers and the sport's power-that-be will make of the result remains to be seen, but 83% of fans being disappointed means that only 17% are not disappointed, the sort of results that would sent shockwaves through any company that encountered such negativity.
Earlier this year, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff claimed that he and fellow team bosses were surprised by fans negative reaction to the plan to introduce double points.
83% isn't a few fans whinging it is a tsunami of dissatisfaction, and while the results of the survey - like the results of all such surveys - can be (mis)interpreted and paint the picture one desires to portray - the sport really must start to take notice of its core customers... those that pay to attend races and those that watch on TV.
Check out our Thursday gallery, here.
Chris Balfe