Formula 1 is "looking for ways to keep its fans engaged during the winter months when no cars are on track," according to Greg Engle of AUTOWEEK. The series currently runs a 21-race schedule stretching from March to November. It is "those months when cars are not on track that F1 now wants to fill." While no new races will be added, Liberty Media "is looking for ideas, and getting inspiration" from the NFL Draft. F1 CEO Chase Carey said, "One of the ambitions we have is to figure out how we make this sport something that engages the fans 12 months a year. One example would be the NFL, which is not playing right now but they just had the NFL Draft. That is a big event. They have created events that are interesting for fans even when they are not in the season" (AUTOWEEK, 5/5).
CHANGING HIS TUNE: GMM reported Ferrari President Sergio Marchionne "seems a bit more upbeat" about his team's future in F1. He has been warning Liberty Media that the team "might leave the series over disagreements" about the '21 rules. Recently, however, Marchionne "has sounded more upbeat." He said, "We are in a phenomenal condition with the car. We were unlucky in Baku, but it is the most promising car since I've been here" (GMM, 5/5).
