Carlos Sainz, the smooth operator of F1, recently hit out at Formula 1’s race broadcast team over something that’s got him pretty frustrated, and it’s not about his car or his overtakes. No, this time it’s about how the coverage is increasingly zooming in on the F1 WAGs (wives and girlfriends) and celebrities in the stands rather than showing the real on-track action where the drivers are grinding it out.
What Triggered Carlos Sainz?
At the recent Singapore Grand Prix 2025, Carlos Sainz pulled off an epic recovery drive, clawing back multiple places after starting at the back. Yet, surprisingly, many of his crucial overtakes didn’t make it to the TV screens of millions watching worldwide. Instead, cameras repeatedly cut away to shots of glamorous partners like Sainz’s own Rebecca Donaldson, Charles Leclerc’s Alexandra Saint Mleux, and Lando Norris’s Magui Corceiro, as well as celebrities chilling in the garages. While those off-track glimpses might add some glitz, for Sainz, it’s overshadowing the real heart-pounding moments fans tune in for.
Speaking candidly on El Partidazo de COPE, Carlos Sainz said, “It’s becoming a bit of a trend… I understand the need for reaction shots when a key move happens, but only if the racing action is respected and the most important moments are always shown.” He pointed out the irony: moments when he was making those slick overtakes or when Fernando Alonso was chasing down Lewis Hamilton were barely broadcast or outright missed. “You miss the most important things. For me, they exaggerate a little with the celebrities and girlfriends.”
What Do The Fans Think?
Social media fans are also echoing this sentiment, with many calling out the broadcast for diluting the hardcore racing experience. Comments range from “I don’t care about F1 WAGs, show me the racing!” to calls for more focus on the action and less on the background stories, unless there’s a safety car or a pause in the racing.
F1’s broadcast team has defended their choices by saying they aim to provide a full experience, capturing both the intense on-track battles and the atmosphere that includes fans, guests, and race day emotions. They say it’s a complex challenge to cover multiple cars and moments all at once while giving context to the event’s vibe.
But for Carlos Sainz, the message is clear: “But as long as you respect the competition and always focus on the important moments of the race,” So, if F1 wants to keep the die-hard fans glued to their screens, maybe it’s time to cut down the celebrity close-ups and dial up the epic racing moments. Because when it comes to Formula 1, it’s the engines, the speed, and the drivers who deserve the spotlight, no contest.
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