Despite the growing interest in Formula 1 (F1) in Jamaica, some of the country’s top motor sports drivers don’t believe it would be feasible to have an event of its magnitude on the island.

Beer giant Heineken recently hosted a live viewing event for the Miami Grand Prix at the AC Hotel in St Andrew. It’s been one of many that has been held in Jamaica over the last few years, with fans gaining more interest in what’s been regarded as the top motor racing event in the world with the likes of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.

Since its inception in 1950, F1 has held race days across the region, including the United States, Canada, and Mexico. However, Tommi Gore says it would be difficult for one to be held in Jamaica.

“There would need to be major investment to allow for a F1 race to take place in Jamaica. [It’s] possible, however, the Government, corporate brands, and motor sports officials would need to come together to formulate a plan to make this feasible. I would love to see this happen and would certainly become involved if it was a possibility,” Gore told the
Jamaica Observer.

But Gore’s father and local racing icon, Doug “Hollywood” Gore says he’s elated to see Jamaicans show keen interest in motor sports.

“It’s amazing to see how rapid the motor sports community in Jamaica is growing; we have some amazing action being produced by competitors on the island and this has sparked the interest of many who are just beginning to become involved in the community,” Doug told the Observer.

“I feel that all forms of motor sports in Jamaica are extremely popular at the moment. Circuit and drag racing have maintained their popularity over the last decade. Rally is back on a steady incline over the last year and the future looks bright, with both sides of the island being involved. Drifting is a new form of motor sport in Jamaica and is also growing in popularity around the island. Karting has many new promising drivers set to come through the ranks in the coming years, which will be exciting to see which genre most of those young drivers take to.”

Though happy with the viewing event, Doug is hoping that more emphasis will be placed on events that Jamaicans are a part of.

“I think Heineken is doing a great job with the engagement of the locals, with regards to the attraction from Formula 1; however, I would definitely support and encourage them to become more involved in the events our drivers are competing in both locally and abroad. The engagement seen from these drivers and events I feel are untapped by many corporate brands in Jamaica and have the potential to create real value for those involved,” he said.

Heineken’s Brand Manager Amoye Phillpotts-Brown says it will continue to support F1 through its respective events and bring more awareness to local fans.

“We are well aware that the local Formula 1 audience is constantly growing, and with this at the forefront of our minds, this year Heineken wants to engage fans like never before. So not only do listed patrons get a chance to view the event, but they can also enjoy world-class entertainment and special promotions in the most memorable and creative ways,” she said. “Our partnership with Formula 1 isn’t just about putting our logo on the track. It’s about celebrating the spirit of Formula 1 and bringing that excitement and adrenaline to our consumers worldwide.”