McLaren hope for Belgian GP solution "next week"

Belgian Grand Prix

McLaren hope for Belgian GP solution "next week"

Just two laps were completed at Spa Francorchamps with both behind the safety car

Sam Hall

Saturday 4 September 2021 14:20

McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown is hopeful F1 can finalise how fans at the washed-out Belgian Grand Prix will be compensated "next week".

The teams are to meet with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali on Saturday at Zandvoort to discuss compensation details for those fans who stood for hours in the rain and cold at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit.

For Brown, the speed at which F1 is able to "resolve" the matter is crucial.

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“I’d like to think we could resolve it next week," he said. "This is one of those situations where I’d like to think we would all feed in our views this weekend.

"Then Formula 1, our leader, takes that feedback and then ultimately makes the decision.

“I can’t think of why I wouldn’t support whatever decision Stefano comes up with for the sport.

“I’m happy to pay our pro-rata share of contribution, whether that’s the expense of going racing again or a financial contribution.

“But I’d like to think [a decision will be taken] next week so we can show as a sport that we responded.”

As "custodians of the sport" Brown added: "We all - the teams, the FIA and Formula 1 - have an obligation to make sure we take care of our fans.”

How F1 could compensate fans

Whilst suggesting a number of options that he would be willing to support, Brown was adamant the events of a week ago cannot be swept under the carpet.

“I know some people want to close the chapter," said Brown. "I think it is still unresolved, specifically for the fans.

“I know there is debate on points etcetera but those are the rules so I think that needs to be looked at moving forward but I think specifically things are unresolved for the fans.

“I think we need to compensate them. That compensation can take the form of racing later, a double-header next year, moving testing there and giving those fans access.

“If we can’t give them some sort of show that they have paid for then ultimately other forms of compensation.

“I’m very open to hearing what other people’s ideas are and I hope it’s a productive meeting today and people put ideas on the table. What we can’t do is leave it unresolved for the fans."