Why criticism of F1’s latest controversial locale misses the point
Formula 1 visits many destinations with 'problems', but the announcement of a race in Saudi Arabia has caused a storm of protest. Mark Gallagher asks if we should be surprised that a multi-million dollar sport run by capitalists goes where the dollar takes it
We live in an imperfect world, so while the news that Formula 1 is to hold a race in Saudi Arabia next autumn prompted howls of protest across mainstream and social media platforms, it is worth pausing to reflect on the championship's past before slamming the door on its future.
The media likes a good story about greedy sports bosses hoovering up money from corrupt regimes. It makes for great headlines and sneering prose, never mind that Formula 1 management has to find the cash for both the championship and its teams from somewhere. Imola and Portimao's pockets are full of fluff.
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