F1 more relevant than ever to Mercedes – Zetsche
Head of Mercedes-Benz Dieter Zetsche appears to have thrown support behind the German manufacturer’s future in Formula 1 by stating the sport “is absolutely relevant and maybe more so today than ever”.
After Liberty Media’s F1 takeover as the new commercial rights holder the future direction of the sport has become uncertain regarding the next generation of regulations and rules which are set to be introduced in 2021 after the current Concorde Agreement ends.
Head of Mercedes-Benz Dieter Zetsche appears to have thrown support behind the German manufacturer’s future in Formula 1 by stating the sport “is absolutely relevant and maybe more so today than ever”.
After Liberty Media’s F1 takeover as the new commercial rights holder the future direction of the sport has become uncertain regarding the next generation of regulations and rules which are set to be introduced in 2021 after the current Concorde Agreement ends.
While Ferrari has been the most vocal team opposing mooted changes to revenue redistributions and regulation changes, in January Mercedes head Zetsche confirmed the German manufacturer is “100% aligned” with the Italian marque on F1’s future.
On the eve of the first race of the 2018 season, having seen Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton set a lap record for pole position ahead of the opening race in Australia, Zetsche has published a statement via his LinkedIn page which fortifies the German manufacturer’s future in F1.
“Before this season kicks off is a good time for some reflection,” Zetsche wrote. “People often ask me if Formula 1 is really still relevant. Isn’t it just a relic of the past given climate change, rising e-mobility and the self-driving future of mobility?
“From my perspective Formula 1 is absolutely relevant! And maybe more so today than ever.”
Zetche lists three key reasons behind his renewed support of F1 – on technology, culture and emotional grounds – and feels these beliefs are fundamental to both Mercedes and the sport in the future.
“That’s why Mercedes keeps investing in racing,” he added. “And it’s why I personally can’t wait for the new season to take off. I wish all drivers a safe and fair competition. And to our drivers and the entire Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport team: go for it, guys!”
