Ex‑driver Jacky Ickx stands by ‘audience figures matter’ claim amid driver backlash

Former Belgian Grand Prix winner Jacky Ickx says audience figures, not the technical quirks of the current rulebook, are the real yardstick for Formula 1’s success. His view clashes with criticism from Max Verstappen, Lando Norris and other drivers, who have dismissed the 2024 regulations as “Mario Kart‑style” racing.

Why it matters:

• Audience numbers drive sponsor interest, TV rights fees and the sport’s global footprint.
• Drivers’ public frustration threatens the brand’s credibility and could affect future talent pipelines.
• The FIA’s 2026 regulation package aims to boost on‑track excitement, but without fans the changes may be moot.

The details:

• Ickx told Motorsport.com: “We must not compare yesterday’s F1 with today’s. What matters is how the audience is doing.”
• He noted modern cars have “four‑plus dashboard parameters” compared with the four‑parameter simplicity of his era, but fans care more about on‑track battles than specs.
• Verstappen warned: “If we keep ignoring the fans, it will ruin the sport and come back to bite us.”
• Norris echoed the sentiment, calling the current aero‑heavy cars “a joke” and urging the governing body to prioritize racing quality.

What's next:

• The FIA and teams have just signed off on 2026 regulation tweaks, including revised qualifying formats and safety upgrades.
• Early‑season testing in Miami next weekend will be the first live showcase of those changes.
• Ickx’s remarks could spark a broader dialogue among former champions, teams and broadcasters about balancing technical progress with fan engagement.