The game begins to change: Formula 1 announces fan festival for Spanish GP

Further signs of the new management of F1 under Liberty Media starting to open the sport up to fans are evident at the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix this weekend; it will be the first to feature a 'fan festival' to celebrate the season's first European race.

In line with the F1 administration's stated aim to 'bring the fans closer to the sport' (which has always been the mission of the JA on F1 website on the information side, as long time readers will know), the fan festival aims to provide added value and more engaging touch points with the sport.

A dedicated fan TV channel for those attending will screen live interviews from experts, with current and former F1 drivers to make appearances as well.

For the first time, a two-seater racing car will take one winner around Circuit de Catalunya at top speeds of nearly 190mph. Numerous other competitions will offer prizes such as Paddock Club passes and photo opportunities with F1 teams up and down the grid.

In the pitlane, a fully functioning garage will show spectators how F1 teams set-up their cars for the race. This fan zone will also boast racing simulators, a 200m zip-line, pit-stop challenges and live music.

At the Paddock Club, those with access will see an exclusive range of show cars and an engine display from the Mercedes team for a deeper inside into its inner workings. A tour in the drivers' parade truck will take those members around the track for a closer experience.

Accommodation packages also include the choice to stay at the same hotel as a certain team's, if requested.

Sean Bratches, Managing Director of Commercial Operations at F1 said “Formula 1 is undergoing a major evolution.

“The Spanish Grand Prix is a landmark moment in the brand’s history.

“From the outset, we have focused on getting fans closer to the action and broadening the appeal of the sport. The launch of this weekend’s Fan Festival marks the beginning of this journey and we are excited about bringing races to life in this way over the course of the season and beyond.”

F1 Experiences has launched a new website along with this announcement. The website implies that the fan festival will carry on at every upcoming F1 race in the calendar.