Mixed Signals From Mateschitz
Written by George Katinger · November 28, 2004
Dieter Mateschitz, newly minted owner of F1 Red Bull Racing, has in a very short time demonstrated a willingness to send mixed messages that can be confusing. And ask anyone at the former Jaguar squad, mixed signals are not a good thing.
reuters.co.uk: INTERVIEW-Coulthard still on Red Bull’s radar
Scan over the posted article and let me know if I’m reading contradictions, or if I’m merely desperate for news and seeing things that aren’t neccessarily there. Please note that Reuters recieved written relpies, no doubt important when getting mixed messages.
1. David Coulthard: Over the prior few days we have all read that DC was NOT in contention for a seat. Now the company line is:
“Among the experienced drivers with ‘development know-how’, David Coulthard and Nick Heidfeld would be of interest, for example,” he said in a written reply to Reuters questions about his team and driver options.
2. Driver focus:
“Our focus is on the drivers, the sport, and the fun involved in the sport,” he said. “Our approach to Formula One is completely different from that of a carmaker: it is more subtle and probably also more competitive.” But, a short read later we get: “But I’m optimistic: the tendency in Formula One is for private teams to have a better chance in future. For us, of course, it is a matter of urgent concern to find a carmaker as a partner for 2006.”
3. All American racing team: It’s off now, due to a lack of American sponsorship interest and drivers, meaning an engine or car manufacturer’s backing.
“That remains a fascinating idea that has just been put on hold for the moment.”
Of the three topics the ones that pique the most interest are items 2 and 3, as they are both related. It sounds like Deiter has cross purposes in mind, or is custom tailoring his excuses for the teams lack of ability to win before the first green flag even drops. In other words, it’ll be the fault of the drivers if poor Deiter can’t taste champagne next year. We know we need manufacturer support, but we should win anyway because we’ll get hot shoes in the car, no doubt all jacked up on Red Bull. Now that’s “Real Bull”!
Mr. Mateschitz, having committed to spend millions on the team over the next three years, is no doubt entitled to air his opinions. Having a team owner who spouts such contradictory messages can also no doubt be a distraction at best, and a real problem at worst. Dieter’s so called commitment to “the sport and drivers” is really no more than an effort to expand his business efforts.
If car makers cannot develop a sound business model to justify the costs in F1 racing, how can a drink maker purveying caffeine do the same? I’m afraid Red Bull Racing may have a shorter shelf life than Prost Racing did. Time will tell.
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