With Stefano Domenicali and Liberty Media looking to expand F1's various venues, the appetite to compete on the city circuit is growing. Many of these are grueling street circuits that have sparked controversy over the value they bring to F1 and the overall quality of racing.
Monaco, for example, is often criticized for not having a race, with no overtaking opportunities. As a counter-argument, the circuit's historic and uniquely challenging nature is often given as justification for its place on the schedule.
scroll to continue
' speakViaplay: F1 TalkVerstappen gives his thoughts on the value of street venues in F1:
"I think there are more and more street circuits that you can't enjoy in a Formula 1 car.
“Formula 1 cars are not designed to be driven on public roads.
"I understand a few street circuits a year - it's exciting - blah blah blah and that's a good thing. But not too many.
“I would rather have an old-school track like Suzuka. A qualifying lap there is so much more fun than a random street circuit.”
Verstappen's analysis seems to strike a balance between asserting the historical value of street venues (such as Monaco) and outlining their limitations.
In any case, Formula 1 has already signed long-term deals with Saudi Arabia and Las Vegas, committing these circuits to the calendar for the long term.
Only time will tell how successful these street circuits will be with modern F1 cars.