From typicallyspanish.com
Fears of falling interest in Formula One in Spain
By h.b.
Apr 25, 2008 - 8:38 AM
There is concern ahead of the Spanish Formula One Grand Prix to be held the weekend in Montmeló where the recent poor results from the Spaniard Fernando Alonso on the track are feared to have their effect on ticket sales. The driver from Asturias moves more than 720 million € a year in Spain, and the business is breathing at least a slight sigh of relief that reported improvements in the Renault R28 leave Alonso in a chance of a place on the podium.
130,000 spectators are hoped for at Montmeló this year, but some observers say it will be lucky to see 100,000 attend, and the event will definitely not sell out. Falling numbers, both at the track and on television, will have a knock on effect on sponsorship deals for the sport in Spain.