The uncertain future of Germany's Grand Prix


March 27, 2015
News
Djordje Sugaris


  • Hockenheim

Since the earliest days of Grand Prix and Formula One races, Germany has been a crucial part of the season, and the long and unforgettable races in old Nürburgring were one of the seasons’ highlights. In the modern days, Hockenheimring has hosted Germany GP and hosting the event was a matter of prestige.

But in 2015, the future of Germany GP is uncertain. When asked about whether Hockenheimring is locked for the season, Formula One chief Bernie Ecclestone responded in a short an enigmatic way: „Not really“ What exactly could be the reason for  F1’s drop in popularity? Mr Ecclestone unconvincingly remarked: „Maybe it’s a little bit that the German people were very used to and supported Michael [Schumacher] and miss Michael when he wasn’t racing any longer.” That is honestly a theory that doesn’t hold up at all since it’s the German team who won the title in 2014.

The future of F1 in Germany is questionable.

The future of F1 in Germany is questionable.

However, this turn of events isn’t exactly news. We remember the late confirmation of the German Grand Prix in 2013 and poor attendance during the event, which couldn’t be disguised neither live or in TV broadcasts. However, Mr Ecclestone isn’t ready to abandon the idea of German GP yet, but isn’t quitting on Hockenheim too: “It’s going to be at Hockenheim, we’re in the middle of doing something with them. It can’t be Nürburgring because there’s nobody there.” adding that the chances are less than 50% and it will be difficult if no agreement is made until the middle of February or the beginning of March. But, since the returning Austrian GP at Red Bull Ring is probably an event that’s going to stay, we re ready for the possibility that we won’t see the late confirmation this year.

The most probable cause of poor interest in Formula One is the rise of touring car racing popularity, with numerous domestic series and exciting races throughout the year. In addition to that, there’s a whole new market opening in the East, which will easily shift interest in Formula One.

So, how will that affect the new generation of GP2 and GP3 drivers, and possibly the first generation that will experience Formula racing on Germany’s famous tracks only with the return of Hockenheimring or Nürburgring on Formula One calendar? Tell us what you think!

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