Swelling F1 schedule could lead to saturation for fans - Steiner

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Haas team boss Guenther Steiner is all for adding a second F1 race in the US, but warned that an expanded calendar could at some point choke the fan's interest.

Steiner greeted positively the news that Miami has put itself on the ranks as a potential venue for Formula 1, believing the American Haas team will only benefit - along with the sport - from a second race in the States.

"I think it would be good if it happens. But for us for sure, it’s nice to be there in the US with a second race," said the Italian.

"I think Liberty is putting a lot of effort into the US because they see a lot of potential in the market there, which is again good for F1, for all of us, not only for Haas. Let’s hope it’s happening."

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Since it took the reins of Grand Prix racing at the end of 2016, Liberty Media's agenda has always included an extension of the sport's calendar, with CEO Chase Carey alluding to a possible 25-race programmed in the future.

Any increase could be met with resistance by teams however, as resources and logistics are stretched to the max. But Steiner also warns that a saturation point could also come into play with F1's fans.

"I don’t know exactly what Liberty is doing [for 2019]. I think there is maybe one Grand Prix not happening next year, and then we are back to 21, there’s always coming and going," he added. said.

"I think 22 would still be possible but it’s getting difficult. We will find out this year when we have the triple header how difficult this is.

"We will struggle and maybe find that there is a saturation point for the public. We need to be careful.

"I think Liberty is very good. They monitor it very well and at the moment. What Liberty is trying to do is get not the quantity of the races up but get the quality up.

"If we get Miami, if we get Copenhagen, I think as a global sport, these are good places to go to."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.