F1 popularity predicted to overtake football

Esteban Ocon has predicted the popularity of F1 could soon "overtake football" after an incredible 2021 season.

F1 thrilled audiences worldwide with a spectacular championship battle between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen that was decided only on the last lap of the final race of the season.

Despite the controversial events of the championship-deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Ocon believes the sport's willingness to embrace new ideas such as the sprint weekend format, will push F1 above football.

In England in particular, the Premier League title is all but settled, with Manchester City out in front as we enter the January transfer window.

“I think it's fantastic the way that Formula One is evolving," Ocon told a post-season media briefing including GPFans.

"Of course, there are still things that we could just clean up or have better.

“But I think the way we are trying things, the way the races were, how they were interesting, the way there are opportunities nowadays, it's just crazy until the last lap.

“That last lap in 2021 really sums up the whole season because it's been like that in 2020, it's been like that in 2021, and if we have the cars closer together, I think it's going to be [like that again], yes.

"It probably will overtake football in terms of how interesting it's going to be, the sport. I would be really happy if that's the case.

“I think everyone talks about Formula One. I had some friends that were not really into the sport, now, they're completely watching. It's just great."

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