A DEFINITLEY REAL CIRCUS

The fact that I'm a bit critical isn’t exactly breaking news. I even wrote an entire book on my critiques of the contradictions that govern the whole F1 show. That there’s a need for further reflection on the circus's inconsistencies might not be clear to everyone.

They’ve taken a stand for grand causes by kneeling before races in the name of shallow ideals, colorful flags, and forced inclusivity—without ever raising awareness about what would truly benefit Formula 1: a more respectful, informed, and competent fanbase.

Spending three days in the chaos of Imola made me realize the enormous gap between insiders and fans.

Now, the great hypocrisy of praising fans while carefully keeping them far from what Formula 1 truly is has rarely been discussed. Likely because it’s convenient to ignore it; addressing it might sell fewer tickets. But perhaps it’s also because no one’s ever had the courage to admit just how wrong things have gone here. TV shows, commentators yelling, forced narratives, and encouragement for reckless fandom.

Entertainment is essential to the equation, but it shouldn’t be the main variable. Otherwise, we turn drivers into actors and other professionals into Hollywood extras, with rows of fanatics obsessed with their distorted and bizarre idea of motorsport—used as an escape from daily life and some hidden frustrations. Certain characters in the stands should be consulting their psychologist's appointment schedule instead of memorizing the Grand Prix calendar.

Formula 1 has a duty to be much more than this. Going all-in on just one aspect has never led to anything good. If you don’t believe me, do your research.

In the current era of appearances, even the tifosi's “marea rossa” is only beautiful from afar. Very far.

© Simone Marchetti