F1 News: Formula E CEO Gives Damning Formula One Verdict - "We Don't Want To Be That Sport"
Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds emphasized that Formula 1 does not serve as an inspiration for the all-electric series, citing the predictability of race outcomes due to Max Verstappen and Red Bull's dominance. He underscored the contrasting race results between the two series and expressed his desire for Formula E to remain distinct from Formula 1.
Key Takeaways:
- Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds rejects Formula 1 as an inspiration due to its predictability from Max Verstappen and Red Bull's dominance, emphasizing Formula E's need to stay distinctive.
- Formula E had seven different race winners last year and three in three races of the 2024 season, showcasing its competitiveness and growth under Dodds' leadership.
Porsche Formula E Press Image
Although his views may come across as strong, it is undeniable that Verstappen's dominance in Formula 1, with championship wins since 2021, is hard to overlook. Last season, Red Bull claimed victory in 21 out of 22 Grands Prix, making the season notably predictable, which contrasts with the uncertainty fans often seek in Formula 1.
Dodds disclosed that Formula E experienced seven different race winners throughout the previous year, while the 2024 season has already seen three distinct winners in the three races held thus far.
Formula 1, on the other hand, has seen fans looking for a tighter grid in the front. With the onset of the 2024 season a few weeks ago, fans eagerly wait to witness a team that can topple Red Bull's dominance.
Dodds takes immense pride in Formula E's competitiveness, which he believes is crucial for the sport's rapid growth. Thus, he is determined to ensure that it steers clear of the predictability often associated with Formula 1. Speaking to the media, he stated:
"I think we've had eight winners in nine seasons, pretty much every season has come down to the last race of the season.
"And if you look at last year alone in London, you had three drivers and three teams that could still win the championship when we get to there, but it's very deliberately done. We know that fans love competitiveness, when competitiveness starts to go, fanbase starts to disappear.
"So we are very fixated on keeping competitive nature high. And I know I made a bit of a bet recently, which you might have seen where I talked about a Max Verstappen guarantee about how he will definitely win.
"And a lot of people at the time said I was being unreasonable. But here we are two for two. And it looks like now the question is can he win all 24? We do not want to be that sport."
Since its establishment in 2014, Formula E has experienced a significant rise in competitiveness, leading to its recognition as the motorsport with the fourth-largest fan base.