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In recent weeks, Formula 1’s TV coverage has faced growing backlash for its frequent focus on drivers’ families, girlfriends, and celebrities instead of on-track action. After mounting frustration from fans and even drivers, F1’s broadcast director has finally responded to the criticism.
Sainz among the critics
Williams driver Carlos Sainz was one of the first to voice his discontent, arguing that the sport’s coverage risks losing sight of what really matters. “Sometimes the race itself feels secondary,” Sainz said. “We’re missing key overtakes because the cameras cut away to the grandstands or celebrity shots. That’s frustrating for us and for fans.”
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“We need to show the entire event”
Speaking to Motorsport.com, F1’s Director of Broadcast & Media, Dean Locke, explained the reasoning behind the editorial choices. “During that particular race, we showed maybe three off-track shots, and not even during major action moments,” Locke clarified. “But we have a responsibility to capture the full atmosphere of a Grand Prix, not just what happens on the circuit, but everything around it as well.”
Locke emphasized that Formula 1 has evolved far beyond a niche motorsport audience. “F1 now has an incredibly diverse fan base,” he said. “Many people enjoy the entire experience, the crowd, the celebrities, the emotions, whether it’s through TV, short clips, or social media. If we only showed close-ups of cars, viewers wouldn’t even know what circuit we’re racing at.”
Balance between storytelling and racing
According to Locke, the key lies in balance. “We need to capture the event in all its forms,” he explained. “That includes the atmosphere, the fans, and the personalities, but the heart of our job will always be the racing itself. The more intense the on-track action, the more our focus stays there.”
Looking ahead to Brazil
The next challenge for Locke’s broadcast team comes this weekend at Interlagos, where both a sprint and a full Grand Prix will take place. Max Verstappen, who has already won three times in Brazil, will once again be among the favorites. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, who finished second and eighth last year, will also be looking to capitalize on the dramatic and unpredictable Brazilian conditions.
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