Return On Racing Powered by Vaucher Analytics Part 2 - The Tradeoff - Drive To Survive: To Grow, You Have to Let Go
Jun 30, 2025
Exploring the challenge of audience growth, the discussion stresses the delicate balance between attracting new fans and retaining dedicated ones. The mindset shift that Formula 1 embraced is analyzed as a key to success, while other racing series are urged to rethink their strategies. The need for foundational changes, especially for the World Endurance Championship, is emphasized. Ultimately, the focus is on designing experiences for potential new fans, which is crucial for the future of motorsport.
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Design For New Fans Not Just Loyal Ones
- Growth requires attracting new, different customers rather than only pleasing existing loyal ones.
- Designing solely for your current base locks you into yesterday's potential and prevents expansion.
Kitchen Nightmares Metaphor For Change
- David Vaucher uses Gordon Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares as a metaphor for necessary change.
- Ramsay's recurring line about not wanting to alienate existing customers illustrates the core growth dilemma.
Hardcore Fans Don't Scale Growth
- Hardcore fans retain but rarely expand your audience, so retention alone won't grow a series.
- If hardcores could scale the sport, the leadership wouldn't be so worried about future growth.