Williams driver Carlos Sainz did not hold back after the Singapore Grand Prix and called out Formula 1’s broadcast coverage for focusing too much on celebrities and girlfriends instead of the on-track action.
The 31-year-old Spaniard made his frustration clear and argued that the live coverage should prioritize the racing rather than off-track spectacle and his fiery remarks have struck a chord with fans who are growing increasingly frustrated with the sport’s current broadcast style.
Why Did Carlos Sainz Criticize the F1 Broadcast?
Sainz had plenty to show at Marina Bay and after starting at the back of the grid due to a disqualification, he slowly clawed his way up to finish in 10th place which was a solid recovery on a tight and twisty street circuit like Singapore which is known for its limited overtaking opportunities.
However, the live broadcast largely ignored most of his moves and instead cut to shots of famous faces in the paddock and drivers’ partners cheering on their loved ones.
“It’s becoming a bit of a trend, which must have worked for them once upon a time when people found it interesting to see our girlfriends, to see famous people on TV, the reactions,” Sainz told Spain’s El Partidazo de COPE.
Carlos Sainz has criticised the way Formula 1 broadcasts live race 👀 pic.twitter.com/82u23IZxBW
— ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) October 8, 2025
“I understand that if there is an overtake, a very tense moment in the race, it is understandable that the production team might want to show a reaction shot if they have seen that it has worked in the past… but if the competition is respected and you are always showing the important moments of the race,” he added.
Sainz added that reaction shots are fine during key moments but the main focus should always be the racing. “Last weekend they didn’t show any of the four of five overtakes I did at the end. Nor did they show Fernando’s pursuit of Lewis… they missed a lot of things,” he admitted.
Sainz Wants a Balance Between Sport and Spectacle
Sainz’s comments highlight a growing tension within Formula 1 which is to find the fine line between sport and entertainment. Netflix’s ‘Drive to Survive’ has helped attract millions of new fans by highlighting the personalities of drivers and the off-track drama but that success has influenced live broadcasts which sometimes highlight glamour over the racing itself.
The Singapore GP coverage focused heavily on Max Verstappen holding off Lando Norris in the battle for second with frequent reaction shots from the paddock. Viewers saw plenty of Norris’ partner Magui Corceiro and Sainz’s partner Rebecca Donaldson but missed Fernando Alonso’s chase of Lewis Hamilton and several other strong midfield battles.
Sainz also noted that the paddock has become crowded with VIPs which makes it hard for drivers to move around without bikes or scooters. “Sometimes there are so many VIPs in the paddock you can’t even walk. We move by bike or scooter because if you don’t, you just can’t get around,” he admitted.
I’m glad I wasn’t the only one confused by what they were showing. Especially the last bit with Alonso catching up with Hamilton
— Joash (@joashr8) October 8, 2025
Fans quickly came in to support Sainz’s claim on social media. One fan wrote, “I’m glad I wasn’t the only one confused by what they were showing. Especially the last bit with Alonso catching up with Hamilton.” Another added, “They need a separate ‘sky sports’ channel for the reality stuff. The main channel should focus on the race.”
They need a separate “sky sports” channel for the reality stuff. The main channel should focus on the race.
— CorporateLegalCoach (@CorpLegalCoach) October 8, 2025
He is 100% correct.
I am watching a race, not a girlfriend and mom pageant.
— DeusVult (@WindchimeBridge) October 8, 2025
Another fan added, “He is 100% correct. I am watching a race, not a girlfriend and mom pageant.” While another fan joked, “I saw George’s girlfriend more times than Russell himself.”
I saw George’s girlfriend more times than Russell himself
— Ian Irungu (@GatumaIan) October 8, 2025
The criticism comes as F1 continues to grow globally especially in the United States and with the next race in Austin, fans will be watching closely to check whether broadcasters decide to refocus on what really matters or stick to their celebrity-focused style.