The damage has been done.

By Weedon Photographic
June 20 2005

Since the start of the championship in Melbourne fans have been treated to race wins and improved form from Renault, Toyota, McLaren, and Red Bull (formerly Jaguar). In addition Williams have been continually prodding at the top runners, and Ferrari have been working hard to catch up.

As a spectacle the sport is at it's best at the moment, and the championship fight shaping up to be the closest ever !

At Indianapolis, after Michelin bravely admitted to a problem with their tyres, the 10 teams rallied around with the FIA and the circuit promoters and agreed on a small chicane just before turn 13. It was decided that this was the best solution, as it meant that all 20 cars could race giving the fans and the sponsors the spectacle that they pay for. It was also agreed that it provided a solution was a fair one as it produced a level playing field for all competitors as every team would need to adjust their strategy to cope for a slightly different track configuration - it was also make the race slightly more unpredictable which everyone agreed was great for the sport.

The race got under way under the safety car for the first few laps to ensure that all the drivers were familiar with the new chicane, and then racing proper started. The result was fantastic - Trulli won Toyota's first race and Michael and Kimi respectively improved their points scoring tally against championship leader Fernando Alonso. The championship fight was getting closer than ever !

The following day the papers were full of positive comment and glowing reports about a thrilling race, and a glowing future for the sport in the US. Ticket sales for the 2006 USGP were already being predicted as US fans clamoured for more action from the sport. The two weeks up to the French Grand prix were packed with press releases and comment from all the major players in the sport, team bosses, major sponsors, car manufactures, dignitaries, sporting ministers, and delighted fans all lauding the way in which the sport pulled together to give the global audience the best race of the season. Ticket sales, merchandising sales, and interest in the sport was at an all time high as media outlets struggled to contain the positive vibes and enthusiasm for this global spectacle. How on earth would Magny-Cours be able to match this..........

Then I woke up !

What a wasted opportunity ! The only ones to gain from this this weekend are A1GP, BTCC, Formula 3, Formula Renault, etc etc as fans (and sponsors) defect to sports where common sense plays a slightly bigger factor in the running of the sport.

Disclaimer:
This is the opinion of a member of this messageboard and is supported by Jordan Fans Online. This opinion in no way reflects the opinion of Jordan Grand Prix or the Midland group.