Formula One racing is in full swing and the excitement is higher than ever.
Although the championship is dominated by Sebastian Vettel ― this season the young German has won five of six Grand Prix so far and scored 143 points ― the new rules and technology designed to improve the show are working brilliantly.
As the F1 is back in Europe, so are motorhomes and hospitality units in the paddock that sometimes offer more space than an average-sized Seoul office. These are the icons that Formula One is famous for, and make it one of the most desirable sporting events in the world.
Paddock was initially made for the teams and drivers to prepare the cars for races.
During the 1970s, Bernie Ecclestone rearranged the management of Formula One’s commercial rights ― he is widely credited with transforming the sport into the billion-dollar business.
As it became commercialized, the interests raised the sport to a new level, and new ways of business were found.
Teams now invite their sponsors and quests to the race track and pit lane where they can see the cars and meet the drivers. Nowadays the paddock consists of motorhomes that offer five-star quality food and entertainment of the highest standard.
F1 has always been an elitist sport and the velvet rope remains at the core of its appeal.
Access to the paddock gives one an opportunity to meet not only the drivers and people involved in F1, but also stars like Paris Hilton or John Travolta who are regular visitors/fans of the sport.
The Monaco Grand Prix has been held on the streets of Monte Carlo since 1929. The small Kingdom south of France stands for fast cars, glitter, glamour and benchmarks as one of the most exclusive circuits in the world.
Last week, it hosted again an exciting race. A noticeable point was the crash of Sergio Perez in Qualifying 3. It was a side impact with over 200km/h in the tire wall. Although he had some bruises and a small concussion, Perez can join the next race in Canada which proves the safety of Formula One is incredibly high.
As the Formula One season is now heading to Canada this weekend, Korean racing activities are being prepared for the 2011 season.
Porsche Korea just enjoyed its Sport Driving School at Yeongam international circuit and the Korea Speed festival is making its debut this weekend at Ansan Speedway.
By Recardo Choi (RB@swa.co.kr)
Korea-born Dutch racing driver Recardo Choi, whose Korean name is Choi Myung-gil, is an honorary ambassador of the 2011 Korean Grand Prix. ―Ed.