F1: GPDA to bring drivers closer to fans

Formula 1 drivers will ramp up their interaction with fans at the Monaco Grand Prix as the Grand Prix Drivers' Association believes it time to implement new initiatives.

Although primarily involved with drivers' safety in F1, the GPDA also feels it important the sport's followers should be more closely engaged with their heroes.

In Monaco on Friday, when the drivers take their traditional day off at the Principality event, the GPDA is to announce plans for greater fan collaboration. It is understood there will be considerably greater social media presence at least.

"We want to communicate with the fans in a way we think is appropriate for current and modern times," GPDA chairman Alex Wurz told AUTOSPORT. "Historically, everyone sees the GPDA working for safety in F1, and yes, that is the primary concern of ours. But we not only work on safety, but also for the sport and for the fans.

"We want to help communicate with the fans, help the sport, and now we are very active in talking to the rule makers, the research bodies, just to make sure we drivers can actually help.

"Obviously we are behind the sport because we love and admire Formula 1 – it has the best cars and it is the coolest show. As we are here and we have the power to support any act, this is what we want to do, it is as simple as that."

Wurz confirmed there is unanimous support for the initiative from all 20 drivers throughout the paddock.

"They want to do more, to promote the sport more," he said. "Hopefully the reaction from the fans will be positive and we can continue to do things in the future."

Lotus driver Romain Grosjean hinted at what is to come as he tweeted: "Great GPDA meeting today! At the Monaco GP we will announce big plans on how to properly connect with you, the fans."

Originally on Autosport.com