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Quieter engines 'attract new breed of fanbase'
The controversial quiet V6 power units are helping Formula One attract a younger fan base, according to a current race organiser.
The quiet turbo engines were criticised from their very first race in 2014, with Australian Grand Prix race organiser Ron Walker saying his investment was no longer worth the money he paid. The engines are noticeably quieter than the preceding V8s and several drivers have spoken out against the lack of sound, with Sebastian Vettel memorably labelling them "shit".
In 2014 the noise debate rumbled into the second race in Malaysia and race chief Razlan Razali, who was not a fan of the quieter engines, now admits he saw the benefits the V6s had on those in attendance during the weekend.
"We were concerned after the feedback from Australia, very concernded," Razali told Reuters. "When it finally came to Malaysia, I didn't like it. It was simply too quiet. But what I noticed in the grandstands is that you get families with kids watching and enjoying Formula One better.
"I can remember in the past where a dad would put headphones on the kid and hold it. Or a kid would be too scared and start crying, wanting to go home. I think it attracts a new breed of fanbase now. And that's what you want."
© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
