Aitken hopes to popularize F1 in South Korea

Can Jack Aitken’s nascent career spark genuine interest in Formula 1 in South Korea?

It is at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix that Jack Aitken became the first Korean driver to race in Formula 1, although this London-born Scotsman races under a British license. It was a major event in this field for a country which does not really have a culture of motorsport – professional drivers can be counted on the fingers of one hand.

In addition, the Formula 1 Korean Grand Prix, held from 2010 to 2013, was frankly not a popular success. The circuit, located in a far from idyllic setting, was very little appreciated by the pilots for its technical characteristics. The spectators were rare there, the organizers found the registration fees to the calendar too expensive, and despite the desire to make this circuit profitable at 250 million dollars, the adventure stopped after four not very memorable editions.

Still, Aitken noticed a certain buzz about his top-flight debut. Recall that the Williams reserve driver took advantage of Lewis Hamilton’s package due to COVID-19 and George Russell’s promotion at Mercedes to participate in the Sakhir GP in the British team, with 16th place in the game.

“There was a big reaction, more than I expected, which was amazing because traditionally Formula 1 is not as popular in Korea.”, explains Aitken to the Hong Kong daily South China Morning Post. “The interest in motorsport is still growing. We have a lot of Korean fans who come into contact and follow the races thanks to my background. I am often asked how to participate. “

Aitken therefore sees his nationality as an asset for his career. “It is common knowledge that motorsport is expensive and must be able to sell itself. The markets in the Orient are very attractive and Korea is certainly at the top of this list. [les constructeurs] can use me for marketing purposes, that’s a real plus “, concludes the former Renault protégé.

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