Friday, May 17, 2013

Whitmarsh Must work harder for Korea The Compelling Case

Korea GP: half empty grandstands
Korea GP: half empty grandstands
The Grand Prix of Korea is not among the favorites of the paddock at the Formula 1 race calendar Weak infrastructure, low viewer interest and a difficult-to-reach distance - all factors that really do not match the glamor of the Champions League. The Korean GP was severely criticized, but on the edge of the last race in Yeongam will be the track owners have agreed with Bernie Ecclestone wants the privilege of the Grand Prix stop in the coming years on more favorable terms. Also of a contract extension - actually ends the contract 2016 - was mentioned.

Martin Whitmarsh, McLaren wanted to defeat this past weekend looking for sporting reasons as soon as possible the distance, failed after Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton in the first round due to technical problems do not make it past tenth. For the Korean Grand Prix, Whitmarsh, however, saw potential that should be exploited only right. "Are plants and track good and very interesting," said the McLaren team boss. "But we have to work harder in Formula 1 in many ways, if we want the fans to take four or five hours drive from Seoul to himself."

The environment of the Korean GP in the province Jeollonam southwest of the country do not offer the natural catchment area for fans, as is the case with many other routes. "So you have to give convincing arguments for the people to come," demanded Whitmarsh. "We can make the economy and culture of success here, but we must think of the formulas, how can we achieve that, because the location of the trail does not make us the light."