Mark Thomas 马健明’s Post

✨ The 1970s: A Decade of Commercialisation and Safety in Formula 1 ✨ The 1970s transformed Formula 1 into the global powerhouse we know today. This decade wasn’t just about racing; it was about revolution, both in technology and commercialisation. 💼 Sponsorship and Global Branding The rise of sponsorship reshaped the sport, with brands like Marlboro and John Player Special emblazoning the cars of McLaren Racing and Lotus. Formula 1 cars became moving billboards, cementing the connection between motorsport and global branding. The growing influence of television broadcasts expanded the sport’s reach into millions of homes worldwide. ⚠️ Safety Takes Centre Stage The deaths of drivers like Jochen Rindt and François Cevert underscored the need for improved safety. The FIA responded with stricter regulations, introducing fire-resistant suits, better helmets, and stronger car structures. Circuit safety improved, with better run-off areas and barriers. 🏁 Iconic Rivalries: Lauda vs. Hunt Austrian driver Niki Lauda and Britain’s James Hunt defined the era. Lauda’s heroic comeback after his near-fatal Nürburgring crash in 1976 is legendary. Hunt’s 1976 championship victory over Lauda, amidst high drama, remains one of the most thrilling seasons in F1 history. 🚗 Technological Innovation The introduction of ground effect aerodynamics by Lotus in 1978 revolutionised car design, while Renault’s turbocharged engines set the stage for a new era of power and speed. The 1970s were a turning point for Formula 1, setting the stage for the sport's commercial success, technological advances, and commitment to safety that continue to shape the modern era. #Formula1 #F1History #F1Commercialisation #F1Safety #Motorsport #NikiLauda #JamesHunt #GroundEffect #TurbochargedEngines

Great news for Formula One enthusiasts! 🏎️:Luxury car giant Aston Martin has just pledged its lasting commitment to our beloved sport by extending its sponsorship of its Grand Prix team until at least 2030. This speaks volumes about the automaker's dedication towards enhancing its legacy in racing. Some thoughts on the timelines: • Aston Martin's strategic decisions are geared not just for quick wins but long term. • Committing until 2030 is a demonstration of sincere alliance to the F1 platform. 💡A few interesting details to point out: • Aston Martin's support for its Grand Prix team is emblematic of the brand's strength. Not every automaker can maintain such an enduring relationship with the motorsport. • To a large extent, Aston Martin's continuous association with Formula One speaks volumes about the enduring popularity and relevance of the sport. It also symbolizes the mutually reinforcing relationship between the automaker industry and the motorsport. Predictions: 🌐 • This decision will possibly have rippling effects beyond just racing. It could influence Aston Martin's claim to authenticity and credibility on a global scale. • This further reaffirms the long-standing bond between the luxury automotive and sports industries. In conclusion, this bold move by Aston Martin is a testament to the deep-rooted ties between the automotive and sports industries. It reassures us about the healthy state of motorsport’s commercial attractiveness in times of uncertainty. 🕰️Here's to a thrilling decade of Aston-Martin powered motorsports! #carmaker #sponsorship #AutomotiveIndustry #GrandPrix #FormulaOne #AstonMartin #Motorsports

Raised on traditional (and still exciting) racing, it wasn’t until recently (and begrudgingly) that I took a deep dive into Formula E, if you are a racing enthusiast in general, believe me, its very much worth a closer look! Check out some of the demystifying that Silvia Schweiger provides in a recent post. #racingcars #formulaE #motorsports #racing #EVRacing #sustainability

A million congratulations have been offered to Charles Leclerc, the P1 winning Prince of Monaco, but the Formula 1 community has been buzzing about removing Monaco from the annual calendar because the circuit style made the race boring. Max Verstappen joked in interviews about wanting a nap. Let's highlight the bumps in the Monaco racing circuit. 𝙇𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙤𝙛 𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙊𝙥𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙚𝙨: Monaco's narrow and winding streets make it extremely difficult for cars to overtake each other, often resulting in processional races that are less exciting and unpredictable. 𝙈𝙤𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙣 𝙁1 𝘾𝙖𝙧 𝘿𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣: The current generation of F1 cars are larger and faster, which worsens the issue of overtaking on Monaco's tight circuit. 𝙎𝙖𝙛𝙚𝙩𝙮 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙧𝙣𝙨: A street circuit poses more significant risks. The barriers are close, and there's little runoff area, increasing the chances of accidents. 𝙇𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙤𝙛 𝙁𝙖𝙘𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙚𝙨:Monaco's facilities for teams, media, and fans are limited. The paddock and garages are cramped, and the infrastructure doesn't match the standards of other modern F1 circuits. 𝙎𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙤𝙧 𝙀𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚: Monaco's tight spaces can limit the viewing experience for fans. Many vantage points are far from the action, and ticket prices make it less accessible to a broader audience. 𝙇𝙤𝙜𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙨: Hosting a race in a small, densely populated city like Monaco is complex and costly. This includes setting up and dismantling the track infrastructure, which can cause significant problems. The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious and historic races on the F1 calendar but people are still debating if glamour and money should be chosen over a good race. #formula1 #racing #motorsports #monaco #charlesleclerc #streetcircuit #grandprix #drawbacks

In honor of Bentley’s historic 1924 Le Mans win 100 years ago, specialist Vintage Bentley will drive the race-winning 1924 Bentley 3 Litre Sport from Brooklands to Le Mans on June 6-8. For more on this historic event, click here: https://lnkd.in/dfnKbzWn #bentley #vintagebentley #lemans #vintagecar #classiccar #racecar #sportscar #carnews #automotivenews #sportscarmarket

500+ overtakes and 9 different leaders during a race... - why Formula E is not the electric version of Formula 1 - The biggest misconception about Formula E is that it's the electric version of F1... The truth? Formula E is a standalone show, boasting Gen3 electric beasts that fight from start to finish. Driven by talented world-class drivers, I've witnessed: → 500+ overtakes in race 6 (astonishing) → 9 different leaders in the same race (breathtaking) → a record-breaking 142.34 KPH in round 7 (the highest average speed in Formula E history) A constant battle from the first to the last corner. The Misano races in 7 words for me? - Fun - Fierce - Intense - Passionate - Demanding - Exhilarating - Unpredictable The sheer unpredictability struck us all. It was like a karting race, so fun and crazy. We missed the noise...someone may say. The electric noise was a cool factor to the ears of the younger generation in attendance and I like it too. Plus, you can appreciate other details that the noise usually kills: - the screeching of tyres against the tarmac - the thunderous impact of car on curb - the metallic clash of vehicles - the car parts thrown around The intensity of the driving was what electify me the most. Ceaseless battles at every turn, not to mention the tactical energy management from the drivers and teams. If you have the chance, go and watch a Formula E race live. Next stop Monaco 🇲🇨 P.S. Yes Formula E is also the worlds most sustainable sport... But it isn’t a token alternative option for environmentally conscious motorsport fans... #formulaE 

Formula E started with 2 races in the US 10 years ago (Long Beach & Miami). Formula E's CEO has just hinted 2 races in the US are again the target for the 2026 calendar. "My view has always been the US needs more than one race," stated FE's CEO. "It needs at least two, maybe more than that. The good news is we have a lot of American cities that are interested in putting on a race. If you look at the US, probably 20 [cities could host Formula E]... New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, Detroit, Phoenix, Dallas, you go on and on... There are so many big cities that have motorsport heritage that could sustain a race." https://lnkd.in/eB_m2NV2

Tale of The Albert Park Circuit! As the Formula ‘s 1 Melbourne GP’s around the corner, I find myself wondering what makes the Albert Park Circuit so special in the F1 calendar. Let me be clear that It isn’t just the stunning location or the mullet heads; it's the unique challenges that set this track apart from the rest. For starters,even though it’s a street circuit, its surface is relatively smooth, but the lack of run-off areas due to the proximity of the lake shore adds an element of risk that keeps drivers on their toes, forcing them to be cautious of track limits! Overtaking is another tough one here, making qualifying crucial like that of Monaco’s. Variably bumpy sections, tricky braking zones, and the shadows cast by the trees that can make it hard to spot braking markers’ formulates to the ultimate test of a driver’s skill and adaptability, demanding the most out of a driver to say the least. 🏁😅 Over the years, I've watched in awe as the circuit has evolved, thanks in no small part to the efforts of the brilliant minds at Tilke GmbH. They've fine-tuned the layout, making subtle changes that have had a big impact on the racing! Widening Turns 1 and 3, replacing the old Turn 9-10 chicane with a fast left-hander, and adding a DRS zone - these are just a few of the updates that have kept the circuit fresh and exciting. But it's the rich history that truly sets Albert Park Circuit apart. It’s been a part of the F1 calendar since the early 1950s, with nil to none interruptions along the way. From Sir Jack Brabham to modern-day aussie f1 drivers like Daniel Ricciardo, Oscar Piastri and Valterri Bottas (pun intended), the Albert Park Circuit has been the stage for some of the most iconic moments in Australian motorsport history! #f1 #f12024 #albertparkcircuit #melbourne #australia #australiangp #engineering

🚩 Madness & Luck 'Driving in the Monte Carlo GP is like riding a bike around your living room.'– Nelson Piquet. As F1 cars are even more extensive in size, it is clear they have outgrown the famous streets. Monaco has so much history, but, alas, everything evolves. Making drastic changes to the circuit would be hugely expensive and logistically very difficult, and there is no guarantee that the racing would improve. In addition, Liberty Media is anticipating an increase in the organisers 'Hosting Fee'. Evidently, Monaco pays $20 million per season. Compared with the Middle Eastern tracks that pay more than $50 million annually. Monaco's three-year deal expires in 2025. However, the Monaco Grand Prix is considered one of motorsport's most prestigious events. Winning the Monaco GP is considered a significant achievement for drivers, often regarded as a highlight of their careers due to the race's difficulty and historic value. The Monaco GP is one of three components of the unofficial Triple Crown of Motorsport, which also includes the Indianapolis 500 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Of course, its glamour attracts a high-profile throng, including celebrities, royalty, and the wealthy elite. F1 management is looking further afield at potential markets in Asia, possibly at the expense of Europe, The FIA's thinking may be tempered by the advent of the 'Green' attitude towards long-distance travel, particularly as 9 out of the 10 teams are based in Europe. The Monaco GP is celebrated for its rich history, technical challenges, unique sport, and high society blend. Making it one of the crown jewels of the Formula One calendar. As Martin Brundle famously said, 'In Monaco, you need a touch of madness to succeed. And a lot of luck to survive.'

The Crown Jewel of Formula 1 Races as begins shortly on the beautiful streets of Monaco !!! * Historic Significance: The Monaco Grand Prix first took place in 1929, organized by Antony Noghès and the Automobile Club de Monaco. It has since become one of the most prestigious and oldest races in the Formula 1 calendar.
 * Track Length: The Circuit de Monaco is 3.337 kilometers (2.074 miles) long, making it one of the shortest tracks in Formula 1. Despite its short length, it is one of the most challenging due to its tight and twisty layout.
 * Number of Laps: The race consists of 78 laps, covering a total distance of 260.286 kilometers (161.734 miles). The high number of laps is due to the circuit's short length.
 * Prize Money: The exact prize money for the Monaco Grand Prix is not publicly disclosed, but it is known for being one of the most lucrative races in the Formula 1 season, with significant financial rewards for the winning team and driver.
 * Difficulties: The narrow streets, lack of overtaking opportunities, and proximity of barriers make Monaco one of the most difficult circuits for drivers. Precision and concentration are paramount, as even the smallest mistake can lead to a crash.
 * Qualifying Importance: Due to the difficulty of overtaking, qualifying in Monaco is more critical than at any other circuit. Securing pole position greatly increases a driver's chances of winning the race.
 * Iconic Sections: The circuit features several iconic sections, including the tight hairpin at the Grand Hotel, the high-speed tunnel, and the challenging Swimming Pool complex. These sections test drivers' skill and bravery.
 * Historical Wins: Ayrton Senna holds the record for the most wins at Monaco, with six victories. His mastery of the circuit is legendary, and he is often associated with the race's storied history.
 * Spectator Experience: The Monaco Grand Prix is famous for its glamorous atmosphere. Spectators enjoy the race from luxury yachts in the harbor, exclusive terraces, and grandstands that offer close-up views of the action.
 * Technical Demands: Teams bring special car setups to Monaco, focusing on high downforce and mechanical grip to navigate the circuit's many corners. The unique demands of the track often lead to specific engineering solutions tailored just for this race.
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