Zack Brown wants to let F1 fans attend private testing

The McLaren leader is known for his passion for automobiles, notably owning an immense car collection with which he sometimes drives for entire days. He notably got behind the wheel of some of his sports cars during the last summer break or after the end of the season in Abu Dhabi, at his home. Zak Brown wishes for the greatest number of people to be able to see the Formula 1 cars in action.

Zack Brown suggested that Formula 1 could sell tickets for private testing, whether during a shakedown or runs with Pirelli, because for him, they are not just simple tests. He would like these events to be open to the public: « I would like it to be very open to fans, with perhaps autograph sessions with the drivers and opportunities for fans to see the cars up close. There are so many different things you can do when you’re not racing that you could open up to the outside world. »

The world of F1 is indeed very closed. When the 20 drivers start their season, the atmosphere in the paddock becomes tense and the chances of having events in a relaxed manner are more complicated. During these test days, Zak Brown believes that the teams and drivers are more relaxed.

The American draws inspiration from the IndyCar series, which is much more accessible, and in which McLaren also has a team. The fans have this desire; this need should be transformed into a virtue when the drivers are not as busy as they are during the Grand Prix weekend.

To see some people arriving at Fiorano with a chainsaw to cut down trees, to get a better view of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc’s runs, it is indeed probably a good idea.

Brown wants to find the appropriate setting and time for his idea. This could be during a session with one or two teams, like during Pirelli testing for example: « But with a tire test or things like that, we could strengthen our connection with the fans by turning it into a real event. It’s no different in other sports, where there are public training sessions, All-Star Games, end-of-season banquets, things like that. I think we can do a bit more there. »

The new shows that Formula 1 wants to offer, which remains above all an entertainment, as demonstrated by the recent 2025 season opening ceremony at the O2 Arena, would then become even more accessible to the many new fans.

Pre-season testing in Bahrain is already open to the public.

Since last year, the Bahrain circuit has been selling tickets to attend winter testing. The price of tickets is naturally cheaper than during a Grand Prix. This year, it will cost around €50.

If last year, only one day was open to the public, this year, Bahrain will welcome fans for two days, on Thursday, February 27, and Friday, February 28, 2025.