In the fast-paced realm of motorsports, both Formula 1 and NASCAR manage to enthrall fans. Both offer a distinct blend of excitement and rivalry. Though NASCAR was established two years before F1, the latter boasts an immense global fandom. While NASCAR predominantly operates within the US, F1 races unfold at diverse locations across the globe. However, recent viewership stats pose a slight threat to the extensive fanbase of F1.

Last weekend, it was an important day for both federations. On one hand, NASCAR had its Cup Series clash at Las Vegas, and F1 had its season opener at the Bahrain Bahrain International Circuit. Data now shows that NASCAR valiantly defeats F1 by miles in one aspect.

NASCAR surpasses F1 in viewership by a substantial margin

It might sound surprising, but NASCAR, telecasted by FOX TV, had a much higher Sunday viewership than ESPN’s F1 battle. The stats came up through two X posts from reporter Adam Stern. The Pennzoil 400 had 4.359 million viewers, which is 9% higher than last year’s 3.991 million.

This positive development indeed brings joy to NASCAR enthusiasts, and it reflects the unwavering support of their dedicated audience. This proves why NASCAR remains a strong contender in American viewership.

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In the meantime, F1 faced a steep decline in its viewership, dropping to a concerning 1.122 million viewers for Saturday’s Bahrain GP. Last year, on a Sunday, they garnered 1.318 million viewers.

Now, one thing that is worth considering is that last year’s race took place on a Sunday. However, since it was the season opener – one of the most important races of the season for any motorsport – seeing a fall in the numbers can not be a good sign.

Despite having abundant resources, and the backing of big brands as loyal sponsors, the reasons behind Formula 1’s decline in viewership remain elusive. But could it be due to its recent off-track controversies?

What are the controversies circling Formula 1?

According to a BBC report, allegations have surfaced against FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. He is accused of instructing officials not to certify the track used for last year’s Las Vegas Formula One Grand Prix. The alleged directive was for officials to identify concerns that would prevent FIA certification before the race weekend. This controversy adds to the season’s early-stage challenges, which have been marked by several other off-track issues.

Meanwhile, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner got involved in a controversy for allegedly sending inappropriate messages sent to a female colleague. Despite being cleared by independent investigators, Horner continues to be entangled in altercations. Recently, an email leak containing text screenshots purportedly from Horner has reignited the issue, ensuring it remains in the public eye.

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The allegations against Christian Horner have also drawn attention to Red Bull’s F1 champion driver Max Verstappen and his future at the team. Through a statement he gave to BBC, Max’s dad, Jos, put an end to all the rumors. The former F1 driver said, “It cannot continue this way. The situation is not good for the team and is driving people apart.” He also mentioned that his son has a contract till 2028, and feels at home in Red Bull, and thus has no intentions to get involved in these controversies.

But do you think these controversies significantly contribute to the decline in Formula 1 viewership?