Dr Helmut Marko believes that Formula 1 has benefitted massively from the departure of Bernie Ecclestone. Ecclestone was removed from his post as CEO of Formula 1 after Liberty Media completed their takeover of the sport in January.
There was an immediate change, as in pre-season testing, teams were given much more freedom as they could post videos trackside, something Ecclestone was heavily against, stating "he sees no benefit in it". Since then, there have been much more additives to an F1 weekend to the delight of Red Bull's Marko.
"There are new ideas from race to race," he said. "We (Red Bull) have often had ideas that were not supported, but it's no longer about things imposed from above, but a cooperation to make the whole event more attractive."
Marko also confirmed that Red Bull has been in talks with F1's commercial boss Sean Bratches, presenting him with ideas for the Austrian Grand Prix which will be energy drink firm's home race.
"We presented him with a list of ideas and within an hour all ten points were agreed. It is a different atmosphere and mood, but at the same time there are also very intensive talks about new regulations on the technical side, the engine side, and the finance side."
During Sunday's Spanish Grand Prix, a young Ferrari fan made headlines as he was visibly upset when Kimi Raikkonen retired on the opening lap. However, he then was sought out and welcomed into the Ferrari hospitality unit, where he got pictures with his Finnish hero.
"I didn't tell Ferrari to find the boy," said CEO of F1 Chase Carey. "They did it on their own, with a sense a freedom they wouldn't have had a year ago. I don't know if something like that was possible under the old management."
Fergal Walsh
I for once agree with Marko, Liberty certainly seems to have made some good decisions so far.
It was nice of Ferrari to take the... liberty... mhmhmhmh... to find that lad and let him get a photo with Kimi, that was a really nice moment, be it for PR or not.
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Bahrain International Circuit - Winter testing
f1fan0101
Posts: 1,804
Agreed, I never concur with Marko but he's spot on here