‘Formula 1 is now so big that even your nan knows who Max Verstappen is.’
Formula 1 used to be a sport for men who smelt of petrol and wore questionable sunglasses. But now? 41% of F1 fans are women.
The Middle East is obsessed. And thanks to Netflix.
With 750 million fans worldwide, F1 isn’t just growing—it’s taking over the world.
So, how did this happen? Let’s dive in.
• The Rise of Formula 1 (2021-2024)
Global interest is up 5.7% since 2021—50 million new fans in three years.
Saudi Arabia leads the charge, with an 11% fan surge in just one year.
Women comprise 41% of the fanbase, with 16–24-year-olds the fastest-growing group.
• The Drive to Survive Effect
Netflix’s docuseries changed the game—35% of viewers say it made them watch more races.
One in four fans only got into F1 because of the show.
Suddenly, even casual viewers know what a ‘porpoising problem’ is.
• The Money is Pouring In
Sponsorship deals are up 56% since 2019, averaging $5.08 million per team.
The IT sector and financial services are now some of F1’s most prominent backers.
Top team sponsors generate $6 million in media value per race—more than some football clubs make in a season.
• F1: Bigger, Faster, and More Lucrative Than Ever
The numbers don’t lie—F1 isn’t just motorsport anymore. It’s a global entertainment powerhouse.
‘Once upon a time, F1 was just for people who loved cars. Now, thanks to Netflix, it’s also for people who love drama, attractive drivers, and Christian Horner looking stressed.’
