Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton could "soon be driving" his Formula 1 car through the streets of London after F1's new owners "held talks for a demonstration in the capital," according to Rebecca Clancy of the LONDON TIMES. The talks, "which are still in the early stages, are based around a demonstration run and would not involve any racing," but could "open the door to the possibility" of a race in London. A new law was passed last month "allowing motorsports to take place on public roads across England for the first time." F1 CEO Chase Carey "has previously expressed his surprise that there are no events held in London" during the race weekend in Silverstone for the British Grand Prix. He said, "You could walk though London and not even know the Grand Prix was on." If the demonstration does go ahead, "it would likely be a few days before the race," which is held on July 16. It would be "the first time in more than a decade" that an F1 car has driven in the capital. A Westminster City Council spokesperson said, "Officers from the Greater London Authority and Westminster City Council have met with event organizers about a potential showcase event in central London, not a race. Discussions are at a very early stage and as such nothing has been agreed" (LONDON TIMES, 5/3).
SAYING YES: In Barcelona, Fabio Marchi reported Carey addressed a number of topics and "appeared sure of the great opportunities the future has in store for F1." An excerpt of a Q&A is below:
Q: Why did Liberty decide to acquire F1?
Carey: There are two principal reasons to invest in F1. First, because entertainment content is growing and there are many options for consumers, the one that has the most value is the one that is unique. F1 is unique, it's a global sport. The second reason is that the management the last six years was below its potential. Every sport is a business and an opportunity. There was no marketing group, for example.
Q: What was lacking under previous CEO Bernie Ecclestone?
Carey: Under the control of Bernie, F1 was a business that said no to everything. Now we want to say yes to many more things.
Q: What is the specific plan for F1 in Spain?
Carey: We do not have a specific plan. We will do some things next week, ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix. A great association has been created, with energy to innovate, and we have to work on this. For example, we have to make the drivers more accessible, connect them with the people and make them like LeBron [James] in the NBA, or [Lionel] Messi or Cristiano [Ronaldo] in football.
Q: What do you think of Fernando Alonso's decision to race in the Indy 500 instead of the Monaco Grand Prix?
Carey: I have different opinions. I would love to have Fernando in Monaco with a car that has a chance to win. But unfortunately, this is not possible in the short term. I understand the reasons he wants to pursue something he's interested in. And it's also beneficial for us, as he is a great driver who will reach the American audience in a unique way (MUNDO DEPORTIVO, 5/3).
