Archive · 29 Jul 2026
F1's Popularity Surges with Young Stars and Global Audiences
Formula One is becoming more popular than ever.
Young stars like 19-year-old Kimi Antonelli are attracting new fans.
All races this season have sold out, and more people are watching on TV, especially in countries like Italy and Brazil.
Women and young people make up a big part of the audience.
Fans are happy with the racing, even though some drivers have complaints.
The next race is in the Netherlands.
Formula One reported sold-out crowds at all 11 races this season, with attendance rising to 3.7 million.
Television audiences surged in major markets, with Italy up 27% and Brazil recording a five-fold increase.
Women account for 42% of Formula One's audience, and 43% of fans are under 35.
Kimi Antonelli, a 19-year-old Mercedes driver, has won six of 11 races this season.
Fan satisfaction with the racing is at 66%, up from 60% last season, despite driver complaints about new engines.
- Who
- Formula One chief Stefano Domenicali, 19-year-old championship leader Kimi Antonelli, and global audiences.
- What
- Formula One's growing popularity due to sold-out races, record crowds, and surging television audiences.
- When
- During the 2026 season, with specific data points from the British Grand Prix and other races.
- Where
- Globally, with notable increases in Italy, Brazil, and other major markets.
- Why
- The sport's appeal is driven by young stars like Kimi Antonelli, engaging fan experiences, and diverse audience demographics.
Positive Fan Reception
Driver Complaints
Fan Satisfaction
Positive Fan Reception
66% of fans rated the racing as good or excellent, up from 60% last season.
Driver Complaints
Drivers have complained about the new engines, despite high fan satisfaction.
- Total Attendance
- 3.7 million
- Television Audience Increase in Italy
- 27%
- Television Audience Increase in Brazil
- 500%
- Women in F1 Audience
- 42%
- Fans Under 35
- 43%
- Next Race
- Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort on August 23