Why F1’s approach to pole winners with grid penalties undermines drivers
OPINION: Valtteri Bottas is credited with pole position for the 2021 Turkish Grand Prix, despite being beaten in qualifying. This is another example of Formula 1 and the FIA scoring an own goal by forgetting what makes motorsport magic, with the Istanbul race winner also a victim of this in the championship’s recent history
Motivation is a powerful tool for athletes.
Some think back to past slights or wrongs they have endured (even tiny ones most people would brush off) to drive them on to success. Others are determined to reward faith shown by supporters or family. Some target specific milestones.
Sometimes what motivates a sportsperson is out in the open. Other times its hidden – after all, it’s easy for targets to become distracting. Focus too much on a specific goal and you just might miss it. But don’t give it enough attention and it might slip away. There’s a tough balance to strike.
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