‘Shot of confidence’: Businesses rejoice as ‘phenomenal’ grand prix attracts record crowd

The 2022 Melbourne Grand Prix drew more spectators than any race weekend in F1 history, signalling the city is back in business.

The event, which was cancelled for two years due the pandemic, attracted 418,000 people over four days.

British F1 broadcast journalist Rosanna Tennant says it was “phenomenal”.

“The atmosphere was incredible and then when we got to racing the stands were full everywhere you looked,” she told Jimmy Bartel and Shane McInnes, filling in for Ross and Russel.

“The fans run, they literally run to get a spot on the Melbourne Walk, and then they’re like five or six rows deep.

“You guys know how to put on a sporting event.”

Press PLAY below to hear which element of the event Ms Tennant wishes was replicated at all F1 races

CEO of the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Paul Guerra, says the event was the “shot of confidence” the city needed.

“We know we’re the best at events but the weekend proved it,” he told Jimmy Bartel and Shane McInnes.

Mr Guerra says it’s not just the money that comes in directly due to the event that helps businesses.

“There the actual money that comes in and then there’s the reputation build. We’ve heard across the weekend hotels were full, pubs were full. We had these F1 superstars visiting some of the local establishments,” he said.

“What that does for business, you can’t buy.”

Press PLAY below to hear how the success of the event will benefit Melbourne businesses

Image: Dan Istitene – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images