The results of the F1 Global Survey, commissioned by Motorsport Network in partnership with F1 and Nielsen Sports, were released ahead of the United States Grand Prix following responses from more than 167,000 fans in 187 different countries.
Max Verstappen was named the most popular Formula 1 driver and voted favorite by 14.4% of fans, but McLaren driver Norris managed to finish second overall ahead of 2017 vote winner Hamilton.
Hamilton was the most visible and public figure in F1 for much of his career and enjoyed celebrity status that none of his colleagues can match.
But he trailed Verstappen by 1.9% in global fan polls, despite remaining the most popular driver among fans in the UK, where he narrowly defeated Norris.
When asked if he was a bit surprised not to see Hamilton in first place, Domenicali replied, “Well, I have to say yes in a way.
“But on the other hand, if you think of the demographics of the people who are more into this type of [votes]’I think you understand why Lando has a great audience in this regard.
“It’s more to do with the fact that he has a new approach to her that is closer to the people who follow it. That is my personal opinion. “
Mass support for Lando Norris, McLaren
Photo by: Charles Coates / Motorsport Images
Norris finished second overall and helped McLaren win the fan-favorite team poll.
Domenicali said that while there was “a very, very small difference” between the top drivers, he was encouraged by the interest in the younger generation of F1.
“I don’t want to give a larger order of magnitude than it is, but it is definitely a sign that, as I always said, we have no problem with the drivers for the future,” said Domenicali.
“We have an incredible group of young, very talented and very good drivers who are valuable for Formula 1.”
The poll reflected an influx of new, young fans into F1 as the average voting age was reduced by four years from 36 to 32.
Domenicali agreed that the Netflix series Drive to Survive has played a huge role in bringing new fans to F1 since the last vote in 2017.
“Drive to Survive certainly had a huge impact, especially on those who weren’t really enthusiastic fans of Formula One,” said Domenicali.
“They saw different narratives related to this sport. That definitely had a positive effect. “
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