ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - NOVEMBER 24: Max Verstappen of Netherlands and Red Bull Racing signs autographs for fans before practice for the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit on November 24, 2017 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)

After massive failure with NASCAR, it's biggest competitor is trying the same strategy


Advertisement

In 2015, merchandise group Fanatics launched a campaign in NASCAR that used "superstores" at each race where fans could purchase gear for drivers, teams or the sport in general.

The idea didn't work at all, and fans didn't care for it. So, NASCAR eventually went back to selling merchandise from souvenir haulers.

Now, Formula 1 is planning on using the same exact strategy. F1 is teaming up with Fanatics for the souvenir superstores at each race that will carry F1 gear, driver, team and Grand Prix products, according to Motorsport.com.

F1 head of commercial operations Sean Bratches said the superstore will be much better and easier for fans.

Advertisement

"Next year we will have a massive tent experience," Bratches said. "You will be able to pick items up off a rack and see if it fits, then go into a queue with 15-20 registers and if you want to send it home, our partner DHL will be there to take care of it for you."

Related: NASCAR finally looks to the future, expected to announce major initiative to boost the sport

Bratches and the F1 executives from Liberty Media are hoping the idea works out better than it did for NASCAR.

F1 is competing with NASCAR, so it is a bit odd to see them using a failed NASCAR strategy. Of course, if it works out for F1, executives will consider that a win over its American counterpart.

The F1 execs are confident in the idea, and they expect to see an increase in merchandise revenue for the 2018 season.

Advertisement

(h/t NESN)