Bratches - Alonso right toF1 as predictable

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Formula 1 commercial boss Sean Bratches agrees with Fernando Alonso's comment that the sport is predictable, but insists changes to allow more teams to compete for race wins are on their way.

Alonso justified his decision to retire from F1 the poor on-track action that has prevailed in the past few years, insisting Grand Prix racing was no longer the dream it used to be.

Surprisingly, Bratches, who, along with Chase Carey and Ross Brawn, oversees Formula 1's destiny, concurred with the McLaren driver's criticism.

"I think he’s right and we have a plan to fix it," the American executive told the Black Book Motorpsort Forum.

"I wish he was around for another 10 years to be part of that. He’s been such a phenomenal ambassador for the sport, such a hero, a legend. I hope that his brand stays around for many years to come.

Alonso disenchanted with F1's 'poor on-track action'

"There is an opportunity for Formula 1 to be less predictable. I think it’s important that we get there.

"Since the 2015 Grand Prix season only three teams have won a Grand Prix. Only three teams. So it is pretty predictable."

Bratches admitted that Alonso's departure from the grid was a big loss for the sport, but he also hopes the Spaniard will remain close to F1 in the future, perhaps in an ambassadorial role.

"I was disappointed from a business standpoint," added Bratches.

"He’s been around for a long time, he’s climbed the highest peaks. I respect his decision to move on. I hope we can engage him to be an ambassador of this great sport for us going forward."

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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.