ENTERTAINMENT SPORT REGULATION CHANGE: HOW DOES IT AFFECT THE FORMULA ONE FAN BASE?

This thesis explores how changes in Formula One event regulations, focusing on the Sprint Weekend format introduced in 2021, impact the sport’s fanbase. It details the FIA's decision-making process for these modifications and assesses fan reactions using online forums and a fan survey (n = 203). The study uses fan segmentation based on specific behavioural survey questions to divide fans into various categories, allowing for a better understanding of their reactions. The analysis evaluates hypotheses to investigate the facts that influence the viewing experience and fan engagement by developing and revising a conceptual framework. This study combines qualitative and quantitative findings in a case study on Formula One to investigate how regulatory shifts impact how fans perceive regulation changes and to provide insights into the broader implications of these changes on fan engagement.