Steiner Worried that Growing Calendar could ‘Saturate’ Fans

Haas F1 team boss Guenther Steiner has supported the idea of adding a second F1 race in the US. However, he has warned that an expanded calendar could choke the fan’s interest.

Steiner was delighted that Miami has stepped forward as a potential venue for Formula 1. He says that the American Haas team will only benefit – along with the sport – from a second race in the States.

“I think it would be good if it happens. But for us for sure, it’s nice to be there in the US with a second race,” said the Italian.

“I think Liberty is putting a lot of effort into the US because they see a lot of potential in the market there, which is again good for F1, for all of us, not only for Haas. Let’s hope it’s happening.”

Ever since Liberty Media took charge of Grand Prix racing at the end of 2016, their agenda has been to expand the sport’s calendar. CEO Chase Carey has even alluded to a possible 25-race programmed in the future.

However, a further increase could result in the teams putting up some resistance. The reason is because resources and logistics will be strained. Steiner also warned of a saturation point that could come into play with F1’s fans.

“I don’t know exactly what Liberty is doing [for 2019]. I think there is maybe one Grand Prix not happening next year, and then we are back to 21, there’s always coming and going,” he said.

“I think 22 would still be possible but it’s getting difficult. We will find out this year when we have the triple header how difficult this is.

“We will struggle and maybe find that there is a saturation point for the public. We need to be careful.

“I think Liberty is very good. They monitor it very well and at the moment. What Liberty is trying to do is get not the quantity of the races up but get the quality up.

“If we get Miami, if we get Copenhagen, I think as a global sport, these are good places to go to.”