article-img

O’Ward Urges IndyCar to Embrace F1-Style Push for Popularity Growth

1 years ago By Sports Desk

In the United States, Formula 1 has grown in popularity since 2018, while IndyCar is only struggling. While the American championship has a good reputation across the Atlantic, it is not growing like its international counterpart. Pato O’Ward (McLaren Arrow SP) states that the product is not marketed correctly and calls for changes to increase its popularity.

“The way it grows today is completely different from 30 years ago,” said the Mexican pilot. Having a quality product is important, but at the end of the day, people need to be here. You want people to be part of something bigger that isn’t just car racing. “Our championship is a perfect example of this, because the racing is great, but there’s something missing that we haven’t figured out yet.”

O’Ward points to Formula One as the ideal example to follow. When it was acquired by Liberty Media in 2017, the discipline exploded in America; especially with factors such as the Netflix series Drive to Survive, new formats (Sprint Races) and the opening of Formula 1, especially on social media. These changes succeeded in attracting a new audience, but in turn offended older viewers.

O’Ward says IndyCar can’t just copy other championships and be successful, but must take into consideration what they’re doing. He argues that change may cause resistance but is critical for growth. The Mexican pilot emphasizes the importance of embracing change for a vibrant and attractive future.

IndyCar has an exciting product on the track, but O’Ward highlights a flaw in the way it’s presented to the audience. He points out the importance of providing a participatory experience beyond technical races. Inspired by F1’s successful changes, O’Ward suggests IndyCar should explore new formats, invest in innovative marketing and strengthen its presence on digital platforms.

The Mexican admits that each championship is unique, but argues that looking at the successes of others and adapting their strategies could be a way to increase popularity. In an ever-changing world, O’Ward emphasizes the importance of being open to change to ensure a bright and attractive future.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More Recommendations
Unlock a World of Endless Discoveries: Your Personalized Recommendation Engine
article-image

Mercedes technology chief James Allison plays down the team’s prospects for the 2024 Formula 1 season, citing unfavorable statistics. The… Read More

1 years ago Sports Desk
article-image

F1 business expert Mark Gallagher has criticized Netflix series “Drive to Survive”, saying it is alienating potential new fans due… Read More

1 years ago Sports Desk
article-image

Davidson predicts Carlos Sainz to lead Audi F1 team in 2026 after Lewis leaves Ferrari for Hamilton There has been… Read More

1 years ago Sports Desk
article-image

In a high-octane showdown at the Suzuka Circuit, Max Verstappen reaffirmed his supremacy on the Formula 1 grid, clinching victory… Read More

2 years ago Sports Desk
article-image

Marc Márquez’s move to Ducati for the 2025 MotoGP season is already sparking much speculation in the paddock, especially after… Read More

1 years ago Sports Desk
article-image

Martin Brundle, a Sky Sports commentator, has apologized to the legendary Queen guitarist, Brian May, after an awkward interaction during… Read More

1 years ago Sports Desk
Stories Going Viral
Unleashing the Power of Stories
article-image

After two intense practice sessions on Friday, the 24th, we had also reached Saturday, the 25th, for the final practice… Read More

1 years ago Sports Desk
article-image

Luca Marini and Honda reached an agreement days ago, once those responsible for the Japanese team agreed to offer the Italian… Read More

1 years ago Sports Desk
article-image

The engines roared, the tires screeched, and the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, witnessed a spectacular showdown at… Read More

2 years ago Sports Desk
article-image

Red Bull Veteran Advisor Makes a Defiant Statement. The vocal Red Bull advisor, Helmut Marko, has threatened the Formula 1… Read More

1 months ago Nielson Ross
article-image

Amidst a season of transition and growing speculation, Lewis Hamilton was questioned about his involvement in the development of Mercedes’… Read More

1 years ago Sports Desk
article-image

The world of motorsport is set to come alive as the 2023 Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix approaches…. Read More

2 years ago Sports Desk
Join Our Exclusive Newsletter and Stay in the Loop!
[newsletter_form form="1"]