Miami Grand Prix is making its debut on the F1 calendar. The hype around the event is staggering, and goes in pair with activities that are everything but business-as-usual. For now, one of the talking points has been the official opening ceremony. Why? Ask Sebastian Vettel about the first grand prix under water.
- Sebastian Vettel made a powerful statement at the Miami Grand Prix opening ceremony
- Aston Martin driver alarms that Miami we know and see today can disappear in less than 50 years
- It’s not a political message, it’s a human message – underlines Vettel
- His claims are supported by scientific findings
- Scroll down to learn about the details
- Welcome to Sustainable Paddock
I know, it sounds mysterious and even ludicrous for some. But let me a dwell on that. During the above-mentioned ceremony Vettel appeared with a special message printed out on his T-Shirt. While everybody around him were milking the moment full of joy, he was standing there in the outfit which was shouting “Miami 2060 – 1st Grand Prix Under Water”.
"Act now or swim later" 🤿
— ESPN F1 (@ESPNF1) May 5, 2022
Sebastian Vettel wore a t-shirt warning that Miami could be the first Grand Prix underwater if more isn't done to combat climate change. pic.twitter.com/Vhobc7Sbin
“Sometimes the truth isn’t nice”. Explaining the importance of the message
“What’s he up to” – you may ask. Let’s give the voice to the man himself. The 4-time world champion was speaking directly to the British television “Sky Sports” regarding the motives under his statement.
“I think it’s great that we have a race here, and great we have people here, this coming weekend.”
“But I find it alarming and, I’m surprised that we go to a place that is not going to be here in 50 years, and everyone acts as if it’s business as usual. That’s very disturbing to me and I think that the situation is very serious, and obviously, I want to express my feelings with that t-shirt.”
The Aston Martin driver concluded in the following manner: “Sometimes the truth isn’t nice, but it’s worth spreading, and it will impact so many people, and maybe some can’t afford to start over anew. We’re in trouble and need to act now otherwise there will be a lot of suffering.”
Will Miami really can be the first grand prix under water?
Unfortunately, the answer to that question would be yes. In the closing stages of the 2020, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) informed that Miami holds a 25% chance of having a 100-year flood by 2030. Generally speaking, as the Miami’s sea level is rising on average of 1 inch every 3 years, the city cannot sink overnight. It will happen gradually, firstly exposing those living next to the coastline and the beautiful beaches of Miami. Eventually, without any mitigation measures, Miami will sink completely.
That said, I rate very highly Seb’s efforts. The German is certainly doing his part in spreading the awareness in a way that is understandable and visible for everybody. Without a shadow of a doubt, F1 could take a bigger advantage on how he is using the platform, and follow his footsteps. After all, drifting away from the burning issues would not make them go away. Of course, we can do it and ongoing life would still be a pleasurable experience. However, why not to tackle the already acknowledged problem and wait with excitement for both today and tomorrow.
Oh, almost slipped my mind. Apart from the T-shirt, this weekend in Miami Vettel is also racing with the helmet that includes the message about the first grand prix under water. You already know where it will take place.
(Photo: AlessioDeMarco/Shutterstock; Twitter: ESPN F1)