Thoughts on the F1 grid girls losing their jobs?

[Cal.]

Formula 1 grid girls have been told to leave motor sports, but they're making one last stand on social media.

Just a few days after the Professional Darts Corporation banned its walk-on girls, Formula 1 followed the same path by banning the use of promo models, commonly called grid girls, commencing with the start of the 2018 FIA Formula 1 World Championship season.

The role of grid girls is to conduct promotional tasks on behalf of blue chip sponsors. They wear clothing bearing the name of the sponsor, interact with the crowd, and carry driver name boards on the grid.

In a short statement on the Formula 1 website on Wednesday, commercial operations director Sean Bratches said the custom of using grid girls "does not resonate with [the] brand values [of F1] and clearly is at odds with modern day societal norms."

"We don’t believe the practice is appropriate or relevant to Formula 1 and its fans, old and new, across the world," he added.

Now, the women who have been left out of work as a result are fighting back on social media.

Rebecca Cooper, a five time F1 grid girl, said on Twitter that it is "ridiculous that women who say they are 'fighting for women's rights' are saying what others should and shouldn't do, stopping us from doing a job we love and are proud to do. [It is] political correctness gone mad."

Cooper also implied that grid girls have been misrepresented and put together a photograph collage to highlight that women who work in her trade are not "scantily clad furniture" and that the outfits are more modest.

For Michelle Westby, working as a promotional model in motorsports led to a successful career as a stunt driver and a drift racing driver.

On Facebook, Westby said:

"If it wasn't for grid work / promotional modelling, I wouldn't be where I am now in a 'male dominated' sport and job as a stunt driver and drift competition driver, inspiring and influencing females into this 'intimidating male environment.' I get girls messaging me all the time saying how I inspire them and made them want to get into racing and drifting when they didn't think they would be accepted… What people don't realise, is that the girls have knowledge of the products and teams they are promotion — that's part of the job. We get a brief on the uniform but it's up to us if we feel comfortable in it. We are more clothed than what teenagers wear down the supermarkets. I'm now retired but to think girls have lost a lot of important income because feminists think they know best, when they really haven't got a clue, is frustrating."

The Formula 1 season begins on March 26.

http://uk.businessinsider.com/f1-grid-girls-have-lost-their-jobs-but-are-fighting-back-on-twitter-2018-2?r=US&IR=T

I think it's ridiculous. It's entirely up to the woman whether she pursues a job being a grid girl.

Thoughts?

[Tom4784]

It's quite dumb, they're essentially just cheerleaders for branding, they could just look at adding men to the practice if they are worried about being criticised for sexism or something.

Not a good enough reason to sack a bunch of people for.

[Niamh.]

As a woman I find it annoying and belittling and **** all to do with the sport, might not be so bad if they had both sexes in there but right now it's just more women playing the ornament role

[Cherie]

Was going to make a thread on this Cal :love:

Having listened to both sides of the argument I think it's the woman's choice, apparently they do a lot behind the scenes as well and many of them are educated to degree level, no one should dictate who can do nor not do a job :nono:

[Cherie]

As a woman I find it annoying and belittling and **** all to do with the sport, might not be so bad if they had both sexes in there but right now it's just more women playing the ornament role

Apparently they have tried to recruit men as card carriers in boxing and no one is interested!

[Vicky.]

As a woman I find it annoying and belittling and **** all to do with the sport, might not be so bad if they had both sexes in there but right now it's just more women playing the ornament role

I have to agree with this tbh.

[Cherie]

I have to agree with this tbh.

It's basically males making females redundant, they aren't utilising them elsewhere, they are now out of work

[Cal.]

Was going to make a thread on this Cal :love:

Having listened to both sides of the argument I think it's the woman's choice, apparently they do a lot behind the scenes as well and many of them are educated to degree level, no one should dictate who can do nor not do a job :nono:

Exactly. These are usually very driven girls who are extremely savvy in terms of business and money etc. It's such a shame they've had to lose their jobs because outside parties have campaigned for it as 'feminists'. What is feminist about making a load of successful women unemployed?

[Vicky.]

Exactly. These are usually very driven girls who are extremely savvy in terms of business and money etc. It's such a shame they've had to lose their jobs because outside parties have campaigned for it as 'feminists'. What is feminist about making a load of successful women unemployed?

I think its more about stopping women being seen as pieces of meat, tbh. And if we are honest, thats what these girls were to most viewers. Just some thing pretty to look at.

I can see a lot of men being up in arms about this and trying to make out its because they are concerned that these women have no job now, when its really they are pissed that they cannot perv anymore. (Not saying thats what you are worried about btw...but so many men have sudden apparently feminist views when stuff like this happens :laugh: )

[Crimson Dynamo]

No. Pictures?

[Cal.]

I think its more about stopping women being seen as pieces of meat, tbh. And if we are honest, thats what these girls were to most viewers. Just some thing pretty to look at.

I can see a lot of men being up in arms about this and trying to make out its because they are concerned that these women have no job now, when its really they are pissed that they cannot perv anymore. (Not saying thats what you are worried about btw...but so many men have sudden apparently feminist views when stuff like this happens :laugh: )

Did you just mis sexuality me?

I AM A REAL GAY, OK?

https://i2-prod.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/incoming/article14119872.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Celebrity-Big-Brother-2018.jpg

[Cal.]

No. Pictures?

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DU5AHt5XkAUztEg.jpg

A grid girl shows off some of the outfits she's worn over the years.

[Niamh.]

I think its more about stopping women being seen as pieces of meat, tbh. And if we are honest, thats what these girls were to most viewers. Just some thing pretty to look at.

I can see a lot of men being up in arms about this and trying to make out its because they are concerned that these women have no job now, when its really they are pissed that they cannot perv anymore. (Not saying thats what you are worried about btw...but so many men have sudden apparently feminist views when stuff like this happens :laugh: )

No. Pictures?

Case Closed :idc:

[Kazanne]

I think its more about stopping women being seen as pieces of meat, tbh. And if we are honest, thats what these girls were to most viewers. Just some thing pretty to look at.

I can see a lot of men being up in arms about this and trying to make out its because they are concerned that these women have no job now, when its really they are pissed that they cannot perv anymore. (Not saying thats what you are worried about btw...but so many men have sudden apparently feminist views when stuff like this happens :laugh: )

:clap1: I agree with this.

[Cherie]

I think its more about stopping women being seen as pieces of meat, tbh. And if we are honest, thats what these girls were to most viewers. Just some thing pretty to look at.

I can see a lot of men being up in arms about this and trying to make out its because they are concerned that these women have no job now, when its really they are pissed that they cannot perv anymore. (Not saying thats what you are worried about btw...but so many men have sudden apparently feminist views when stuff like this happens :laugh: )

But the women go into it willingly, if men want to see them as a piece of meat that's not the women's issue

[Vicky.]

But the women go into it willingly, if men want to see them as a piece of meat that's not their problem

The whole point of the job is to be seen as pieces of meat though, and this kind of view trickles down into society also.

I kind of have this (unpopular) opinion on the likes of lapdancing clubs too tbh. Yes, the girls may chose to go into it, but it has the wider implications of men thinking its fine to see women as something that can/should be bought and sold or are just there for men to drool over and grope. I do not think the jobs should be available, for them to chose to go into in the first place really. Honestly, I cannot see how the sexes can ever be equal with **** like this going on.

[Cal.]

Women draining men of cash just to drool over a natural naked body is kind of an iconic concept though.

[Vicky.]

Women draining men of cash just to drool over a natural naked body is kind of an iconic concept though.

Well yes, I agree with this too :hehe:

[Cherie]

Women draining men of cash just to drool over a natural naked body is kind of an iconic concept though.

:love:

I probably would mind this do much if they were redeploying the ladies elsewhere, but they are just dismissing them

[Vicky.]

:love:

I probably would mind this do much if they were redeploying the ladies elsewhere, but they are just dismissing them

Its only for like 1 day a year or something though isn't it? Its not like its a fulltime round the year job.

[smudgie]

Pathetic.

If the women want to flaunt their bodies it's up to them.

[Niamh.]

The whole point of the job is to be seen as pieces of meat though, and this kind of view trickles down into society also.

I kind of have this (unpopular) opinion on the likes of lapdancing clubs too tbh. Yes, the girls may chose to go into it, but it has the wider implications of men thinking its fine to see women as something that can/should be bought and sold or are just there for men to drool over and grope. I do not think the jobs should be available, for them to chose to go into in the first place really. Honestly, I cannot see how the sexes can ever be equal with **** like this going on.

Exactly

[Niamh.]

Pathetic.

If the women want to flaunt their bodies it's up to them.

No it shouldn't be, it has no place in a sport like F1 that I enjoy watching and my kids enjoy watching, I don't want my daughter looking at those girls thinking that women are there to amuse and decorate the place for men and equally I don't want my son thinking that about women either

[Alf]

Complain about a wage gap while at the same time fighting to take a wage packet of women.

Never mind, they can always sign on the rock and roll, and if they have any kids who need clothing and feeding, then so what.

[bots]

Any pictures I have seen have been pretty tasteful and not tasty ..... I think its an organisation using the anti sexist banner as a way of saving money which is pretty cynical

[Crimson Dynamo]

Case Closed :idc:

:oh:

[smudgie]

It's not as if they are naked.
I am pretty sure your kids, like mine, will understand that women and men are equal, and that they have freedom of choice in what they chooses to do, or wear.

[Niamh.]

It's not as if they are naked.
I am pretty sure your kids, like mine, will understand that women and men are equal, and that they have freedom of choice in what they chooses to do, or wear.

Not in this particular one no, but darts abit less, Boxing and UFC even less still. That **** has no place in sport imo

[Crimson Dynamo]

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2017/03/20/04/3E728B1400000578-4329996-image-a-17_1489985414375.jpg
https://www.drivespark.com/img/2012/12/x06-1354786308-girl-20.jpg.pagespeed.ic.SHBcKxUN_P.jpg

insert some joke about Pole position

[bots]

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2017/03/20/04/3E728B1400000578-4329996-image-a-17_1489985414375.jpg
https://www.drivespark.com/img/2012/12/x06-1354786308-girl-20.jpg.pagespeed.ic.SHBcKxUN_P.jpg

insert some joke about Pole position

As I was saying tasteful rather than tasty :whistle:

[Crimson Dynamo]

I am disgusted, i have spent a good 10 minutes with a cup of tea googling F1 girls and frankly its an outrage

:fist:

FILTH

[Alf]

I've seen Miley Cyrus wearing less while twerking and gabbing her crutch infront of kids.

[Niamh.]

I've seen Miley Cyrus wearing less while twerking and gabbing her crutch infront of kids.

I have no idea what the relevance of that is but ok, Miley Cyrus isn't a good example to young girls either?

[Alf]

I have no idea what the relevance of that is but ok, Miley Cyrus isn't a good example to young girls either?I have no idea what relevance this post I'm quoting on has too, what a coincidence eh?

I'll just shut up shall I?

[montblanc]

I can see a lot of men being up in arms about this and trying to make out its because they are concerned that these women have no job now, when its really they are pissed that they cannot perv anymore. (Not saying thats what you are worried about btw...but so many men have sudden apparently feminist views when stuff like this happens :laugh: )

:clap1:

[Cherie]

It's not as if they are naked.
I am pretty sure your kids, like mine, will understand that women and men are equal, and that they have freedom of choice in what they chooses to do, or wear.

:clap2:

Niamh..TiBBs very own Widdie :omgno:

[Cal.]

No it shouldn't be, it has no place in a sport like F1 that I enjoy watching and my kids enjoy watching, I don't want my daughter looking at those girls thinking that women are there to amuse and decorate the place for men and equally I don't want my son thinking that about women either

Do you not want your daughter and son seeing highly driven women doing something they enjoy and earning money from it though? A good example in my opinion!

[hijaxers]

Apparently they have tried to recruit men as card carriers in boxing and no one is interested!

Have they checked Courtney or Andrew ?

[Niamh.]

Do you not want your daughter and son seeing highly driven women doing something they enjoy and earning money from it though? A good example in my opinion!Not in mine and you're dreaming if you think that's how those girls are viewed

[Vicky.]

Not in mine and you're dreaming if you think that's how those girls are viewed

Indeed.

Would you not be happy with your daughter aspiring to be a prostitute as some prostitutes claim they enjoy their work and its what they always planned to do and good money can be earned?! Whats wrong with you?! :fist:

Edit. Not saying these girls are prostitutes obviously..but its along the same line of thought tbh

[bots]

An organisation as large as F1 could easily have placed "career driven women" at alternative jobs within the organisation. They didn't. So what does that say?

[Cal.]

Not in mine and you're dreaming if you think that's how those girls are viewed

Indeed.

Would you not be happy with your daughter aspiring to be a prostitute as some prostitutes claim they enjoy their work and its what they always planned to do and good money can be earned?! Whats wrong with you?! :fist:

Edit. Not saying these girls are prostitutes obviously..but its along the same line of thought tbh

OI!

That’s my thought process!

[James]

I didn't realise grid girls were controversial.

[user104658]

So men can't tell women what it's OK for women to do or not do, but it is OK for other women to tell women what it's OK to do or not to do. Is this feminism? I suppose it might be. I mean I always thought it was a mess. :whistle:.

[montblanc]

after thinking about this for some time i don't think they should've fired the F1 grid girls on the grounds of feminism. it doesn't make sense

[Northern Monkey]

For me this is where feminism has lost it’s way and veered away from it’s cause.
Putting women who love their jobs,presumably get paid well and get to meet their hero’s out of work for some extreme version of a once great cause is a backwards step.

There’s nothing wrong with showing female beauty.It’s a positive thing!

Iy69L_fdlTc

[michael21]

Every one every one the question we should asking is why no female f1 drivers

[Marsh.]

I would say, as long as it's not exploitative, a bit of harmless titillation hurt nobody. As long as everything is above board. :smug:

I mean essentially, it's a form of modelling?

[michael21]

I didn't realise grid girls were controversial.

The world gone mad:bawling:

[michael21]

http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2017/03/20/04/3E728B1400000578-4329996-image-a-17_1489985414375.jpg
https://www.drivespark.com/img/2012/12/x06-1354786308-girl-20.jpg.pagespeed.ic.SHBcKxUN_P.jpg

insert some joke about Pole position

:joker:

[Cherie]

I would say, as long as it's not exploitative, a bit of harmless titillation hurt nobody. As long as everything is above board. :smug:

I mean essentially, it's a form of modelling?

:clap2:

[smudgie]

Every one every one the question we should asking is why no female f1 drivers

Think the first female f1 driver was way way back in the 50's.

[Marsh.]

Every one every one the question we should asking is why no female f1 drivers

You're probably to young to have had much experience, but it's because they are awful drivers. :hehe:

[michael21]

Think the first female f1 driver was way way back in the 50's.

Thanks for the history lesson

[Vicky.]

You're probably to young to have had much experience, but it's because they are awful drivers. :hehe:

Oi :fist:

[michael21]

You're probably to young to have had much experience, but it's because they are awful drivers. :hehe:

What geordie shore said

[Niamh.]

You're probably to young to have had much experience, but it's because they are awful drivers. :hehe:Oh look casual sexism, yeah keep the women in bikinis holding umbrellas over the men :idc:

[Marsh.]

Oh look casual sexism, yeah keep the women in bikinis holding umbrellas over the men :idc:

Be a doll, and get me an extra ice cube for my drink. :hehe:

[Marsh.]

*Marsh rushed to hospital as Niamh tries to force an entire bag of ice cubes down his sexist throat*

[michael21]

Be a doll, and get me an extra ice cube for my drink. :hehe:

rVw9JE6gjoU

[Cherie]

*Marsh rushed to hospital as Niamh tries to force an entire bag of ice cubes down his sexist throat*

:laugh:

[MTVN]

Busybody killjoys with too much time on their hands imo, same goes for getting rid of the walk on girls at darts :idc:

[Shaun]

An easier solution would be to just have men in tight trousers also do the job, no? :pipe2:

[Niamh.]

Busybody killjoys with too much time on their hands imo, same goes for getting rid of the walk on girls at darts :idc:Oh look suddenly a load of men care about women's rights :idc:

[Alf]

An easier solution would be to just have men in tight trousers also do the job, no? :pipe2:Wrestling was huge in the UK pre 90s. Lot's of men in small tight trunks there, grappling and groping each other. I was a regular at ringside, it's amazing I turned out straight.

[Marsh.]

Don't the walk-on darts girls go topless though?

I draw the line at that. They must maintain a bit of class. :idc:

Class nor crass my loves.

[MTVN]

IRISH darts favourite Hazel O’Sullivan has told how she believes the decision to axe walk-on girls is “anti-woman”.

https://www.thesun.ie/news/2111263/former-celebrity-big-brother-contestant-and-darts-favourite-hazel-osullivan-slams-sport-bosses-decision-to-axe-walk-on-girls-saying-its-anti-woman/

Hazel with some words of wisdom in this article :clap2:

[MTVN]

Don't the walk-on darts girls go topless though?

I draw the line at that. They must maintain a bit of class. :idc:

Class nor crass my loves.

Certainly not, they just wear pretty standard dresses

[Marsh.]

IRISH darts favourite Hazel O’Sullivan has told how she believes the decision to axe walk-on girls is “anti-woman”.

https://www.thesun.ie/news/2111263/former-celebrity-big-brother-contestant-and-darts-favourite-hazel-osullivan-slams-sport-bosses-decision-to-axe-walk-on-girls-saying-its-anti-woman/

Hazel with some words of wisdom in this article :clap2:

Stunning woman.

[michael21]

There a really sexy post girl where I live will she also be sack

[Vicky.]

I don't think I have ever seen so many men up in arms about womens rights. Its amazing and surely nothing to do with anything bar them being concerned about womens earning potential :D I hope these men remain concerned about what happens to women and their rights. Though I expect interest will dissapear again until the next issue about scantily dressed 'objects' to drool over being ended happens. My facebook is filled with blokes kicking off about this, and all trying the 'the poor women' angle when its painfully obvious what their real issue is.

[MTVN]

I don't think I have ever seen so many men up in arms about womens rights. Its amazing and surely nothing to do with anything bar them being concerned about womens earning potential :D

But it's those who have banned it who have played the woman's rights angles. Those who defend it only point out that not all women agree that they are being exploited etc or that it it is damaging to their rights

'Women' are not a homogenous group who all think the same after all, if one group of women think grid girls is offensive and one group of women think it is not then who is to say which is right? Why is one allowed to impose their view on another?

[Marsh.]

I don't think I have ever seen so many men up in arms about womens rights. Its amazing and surely nothing to do with anything bar them being concerned about womens earning potential :D I hope these men remain concerned about what happens to women and their rights. Though I expect interest will dissapear again until the next issue about scantily dressed 'objects' to drool over being ended happens. My facebook is filled with blokes kicking off about this, and all trying the 'the poor women' angle when its painfully obvious what their real issue is.

That is hilarious tbh. You'd think a woman holding up a score card is the only time they get to see an attractive woman in little clothing.

[Vicky.]

Why are men not concerned about womens rights any other time, except when they are losing their eye candy? :suspect:

Not All Men Are Like That disclaimer. Some do care, obviously. But not as many who are up in arms about this singular issue

[Vicky.]

That is hilarious tbh. You'd think a woman holding up a score card is the only time they get to see an attractive woman in little clothing.

Well quite. Have said to a few people that if they are so concerned about not seeing a couple of tits or bare legs this year when watching car crap, to just go out on a friday night in town and there will be hundreds of tits and legs on show for them to perv on. They don't like that reply, it seems :laugh:

[Marsh.]

'Women' are not a homogenous group who all think the same after all, if one group of women think grid girls is offensive and one group of women think it is not then who is to say which is right? Why is one allowed to impose their view on another?

So it's up to the men then to step in and decide for them. :clap1:

[MTVN]

So it's up to the men then to step in and decide for them. :clap1:

Well it's predominantly men in F1 and the PDC who have made this decision to remove them so :shrug:

[Marsh.]

Well it's predominantly men in F1 and the PDC who have made this decision to remove them so :shrug:

Exactly. :clap1:

[user104658]

I would say, as long as it's not exploitative, a bit of harmless titillation hurt nobody. As long as everything is above board. :smug:

I mean essentially, it's a form of modelling?Err no, modelling is going to be banned next because it is exploitative and not allowed.

This is how it works;

Woman 1: "I wanna be a model."

Woman 2: "Umm no you are sexist for wanting to be a model..."

"But that's what I really want to do? That's where I really see myself working."

"No, look, we've made some arrangements and you're going to train to be an engineer because there's more men doing that and we want to even it up."

"But I don't want to be an engineer?? I have no interest in being an engineer! I want to be a model and a F1 girl!"

"Tough ****! You're being an engineer! Because that's equality!"

"But..."

"Off to engineering school with you, you shameless anti-feminist puppet of the patriarchy, and don't dare come back until you have forgotten all about modelling, and have designed a bridge instead!"

[Cherie]

Err no, modelling is going to be banned next because it is exploitative and not allowed.

This is how it works;

Woman 1: "I wanna be a model."

Woman 2: "Umm no you are sexist for wanting to be a model..."

"But that's what I really want to do? That's where I really see myself working."

"No, look, we've made some arrangements and you're going to train to be an engineer because there's more men doing that and we want to even it up."

"But I don't want to be an engineer?? I have no interest in being an engineer! I want to be a model and a F1 girl!"

"Tough ****! You're being an engineer! Because that's equality!"

"But..."

"Off to engineering school with you, you shameless anti-feminist puppet of the patriarchy, and don't dare come back until you have forgotten all about modelling, and have designed a bridge instead!"


that's the way we are going..:laugh:

[Crimson Dynamo]

why cant a woman

be more like a man?

that is what I am asking myself

[Cherie]

Barrie Hearn was just interviewed about this, and of course he wouldn't want his granddaughters doing it, great isn't it now we have old codgers telling women what they can and can't do :idc:

[Niamh.]

I don't think I have ever seen so many men up in arms about womens rights. Its amazing and surely nothing to do with anything bar them being concerned about womens earning potential :D I hope these men remain concerned about what happens to women and their rights. Though I expect interest will dissapear again until the next issue about scantily dressed 'objects' to drool over being ended happens. My facebook is filled with blokes kicking off about this, and all trying the 'the poor women' angle when its painfully obvious what their real issue is.

Indeed, this thread is pretty hilarious and so transparent

[Crimson Dynamo]

We don't just stand there looking pretty' - what it's really like to be a Formula 1 grid girl

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/content/dam/women/2018/02/01/TELEMMGLPICT000152951559_trans_NvBQzQNjv4BqYWNJspV vOUVBAuV2D2wK5tXshSCEjiFHc5qxWUFxtts.jpeg?imwidth= 1400



I’ve always been a motorsports fan. I grew up watching them with my dad, who taught me the meaning of being black-flagged and pointed out the backmarkers. So when I saw a job casting for a ‘grid girl’ when I was 22, I jumped at the chance to be in the thick of the action. Eight years on, Formula One have just banned us from the 2018 season – we’re out of fashion, apparently, and ‘at odds’ with modern-day values. When these values stop women doing a job we love and are proud to do, you have to wonder if the modern world’s become a little odd, itself.

I was already doing modelling work when I started as a grid girl, but this was a different game altogether. The job offers aren’t just based on looks – though there are, of course, physical requirements; usually, you must be a size 8 to 12 and at least 5ft 5ins – they want to know who you are and how adept you will be at the meeting and greeting part of the role. Each job must be applied for afresh. A passion for the sport also helps. For all this, we are usually paid around £100 a day – far less than people might assume.

Before each event, we’re sent the low-down on what the job will involve: what we will be doing and what we will be wearing. No-one is forced to turn up and wear anything they’re not comfortable with, and anyone who claims we are forced into skimpy outfits is at least 20 years out of date. If we don't like the uniform, we needn't do the job. But in this post-Weinstein world, it seems women are deemed incapable of standing up for themselves.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/content/dam/women/2018/02/01/TELEMMGLPICT000153053040_trans_NvBQzQNjv4BqpVlberW d9EgFPZtcLiMQfyf2A9a6I9YchsjMeADBa08.jpeg?imwidth= 1240



On the day itself, it’s an early start: up before dawn to be at the circuit for 6am, ahead of the arrival of the public. For me, that might be a good 150 miles from West Yorkshire to Silverstone. Once there, we get changed – I’ve worn everything from a red dress suit (someone remarked we looked “more like bankers”) to overalls – and receive a briefing from the organisers about what’s going to happen. Then it’s off to the grid, where the work begins, and often doesn’t end until around 9pm.

To the armchair enthusiasts watching at home, it looks as if our only job is to stand in front of a car holding a flag, or to stand on a podium and clap – I was up there with Lewis Hamilton, shortly after he came under fire for spraying champagne straight into the face of one of the grid girls after his win at the Chinese Grand Prix in 2015 – but there’s more to it than hanging around. We also have to engage with the fans, both in the hospitality suites and the pit lanes, while they’re waiting for autographs. Most of the girls are motorsports fans: if we didn’t know what we were talking about, we wouldn’t get very far in our conversations with the punters. We’re not just standing there looking pretty, we’re out there representing the brands.

The fans are mostly but not exclusively men, and if we get some wolf-whistling and catcalling when we walk out on to the bridge, it’s no more than you’d get just walking down the street or on a night out. I’ve never seen or been on the receiving end of any male misbehaviour more inappropriate than I’ve encountered in a bar. The attention is not something I take too seriously, and nor does it bother my boyfriend. In fact, it’s more hurtful to hear the women tut-tutting and eye-rolling at our outfits.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/content/dam/women/2018/02/01/Rebecca-Cooper-grid_trans_NvBQzQNjv4BqrWYeUU_H0zBKyvljOo6zlqOylOV 7i1cNNz18XOj47vE.jpg?imwidth=1240



The idea that we’re there merely as some kind of adornment just doesn’t wash. As a grid girl, you’re made to feel part of the team; you’re in the garages with the team members and you’re always well looked after. We’re not plied with booze or dragged to any after-parties. On the contrary, we can’t drink on the job, and at the end of the day I go home to my own bed.

They say it’s an honour to be a grid girl, and I genuinely feel it is. It is something I have chosen to do; less for the money, more for the thrill of it. We’re told that as part of female empowerment, women should be proud of their bodies and do as they choose with them. Well, who chooses which women get to choose? We’ve been accused of sexualising our bodies, demeaning women and failing to represent our sex positively. Someone even compared us to prostitutes. But none of these people understand what we do, or the fact that we really enjoy doing it.

The presence of women doing similar things is a well-loved tradition across numerous sports: from the walk-on girls in darts (though the Professional Darts Corporation has announced their days are numbered, too) to the ring girls in boxing. But organisers are now under pressure to look like they’re doing the right thing. Right for whom? Not for the spectators. Or for the girls who do it for the love of the job; for the sense of camaraderie and the excitement of being there on the track. Not once have I felt like a victim.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/content/dam/women/2018/02/01/TELEMMGLPICT000153029697_trans_NvBQzQNjv4BqpVlberW d9EgFPZtcLiMQfy2dmClwgbjjulYfPTELibA.jpeg?imwidth= 1240



I’m 30 now and have a six-year-old daughter, who sometimes come with me to watch. Whether she wants to be a grid girl, an engineer or something else entirely, I’ll be happy, just as long as the choice is hers.

As well as continuing to model, I’ve also got my own company organising fireworks displays so I do not – I could not – rely on my work as a grid girl to pay the bills. I have friends who are nurses or teachers but still choose to come and spend their weekends as grid girls purely for the enjoyment of it. For others, it’s a way of making extra cash while at university – there are even doctors and lawyers.

Like any job there are downsides. When you drag yourself from bed early in the morning to have your hair and make-up done before spending a long day in high heels, you do sometimes wonder, “why on earth do I bother?” But once you’re out there on the podium, surrounded by the fans, that’s when you feel it’s the best gig in the world. We’ll miss it when it’s gone.

Daily Telegraph 2.2.18

[user104658]

Indeed, this thread is pretty hilarious and so transparent

I have zero interest in darts, zero interest in F1, zero interest in modelling, and zero interest in seeing young girls waving off fast cars in tight dresses. Literally, none. I just straight up think that the concept that women (or anyone) should be able to dictate to other women what jobs are / aren't "appropriate" for them to do, and that this is somehow in the name of empowering women, is utterly ridiculous. I mean, there are plenty of things that men do for money that I wouldn't do, and that if I had a son I wouldn't particularly want him to do, that perpetuate male stereotypes etc., but do I want to stop other people from doing those jobs of their own free will? No, because that's authoritarian nonsense and it's none of my business how they choose to use their bodies or minds. That is free will, that is individualism. The idea that a women "must" behave in a certain way and "can't" or "shouldn't" do certain things is the absolute opposite of empowerment.

So... Secondly... and I have to be pretty blunt about this: The idea that it's "hilarious, transparent, obvious" that men are only concerned about this "because they want to see teh ladies with teh boobies" and are just making the rest up to fit that agenda is short-sighted, offensive, divisive, agenda driven twaddle. It might be true of a small number? I don't know. I do know that it certainly isn't true of myself and that it's a gross, and mostly entirely false, stereotype. It's also pretty ****ing sexist, but there you go.

[Northern Monkey]

I don't think I have ever seen so many men up in arms about womens rights. Its amazing and surely nothing to do with anything bar them being concerned about womens earning potential :D I hope these men remain concerned about what happens to women and their rights. Though I expect interest will dissapear again until the next issue about scantily dressed 'objects' to drool over being ended happens. My facebook is filled with blokes kicking off about this, and all trying the 'the poor women' angle when its painfully obvious what their real issue is.

Nice way to try and belittle any male opinions that might find their way in here.I don’t even watch F1 anymore.

Just commenting on the anti-logic of extremist feminism.

Whatever happened to women being able to choose whatever career they like?

[user104658]

...Actually I'm not even done. I'm pretty hacked off about this now. :joker:

I hope these men remain concerned about what happens to women and their rights. Though I expect interest will dissapear again until the next issue about scantily dressed 'objects' to drool over being ended happens.

Indeed, this thread

...Seriously though. I'm struggling to get my head around this comment, honestly. I mean yes, we all know that LT is on the wind up, and Alf is probably a bit of a perv, but other than that... a lot of male members including myself have commented in this thread and the idea that the above bolded statement actually applies? Look back at the male members who have commented here and tell me that you genuinely think that "it's about having scantily clad objects to drool over". That's a pretty big statement to be making about people who in my opinion, it does not apply to in any way shape or form.

[Niamh.]

I have zero interest in darts, zero interest in F1, zero interest in modelling, and zero interest in seeing young girls waving off fast cars in tight dresses. Literally, none. I just straight up think that the concept that women (or anyone) should be able to dictate to other women what jobs are / aren't "appropriate" for them to do, and that this is somehow in the name of empowering women, is utterly ridiculous. I mean, there are plenty of things that men do for money that I wouldn't do, and that if I had a son I wouldn't particularly want him to do, that perpetuate male stereotypes etc., but do I want to stop other people from doing those jobs of their own free will? No, because that's authoritarian nonsense and it's none of my business how they choose to use their bodies or minds. That is free will, that is individualism. The idea that a women "must" behave in a certain way and "can't" or "shouldn't" do certain things is the absolute opposite of empowerment.

So... Secondly... and I have to be pretty blunt about this: The idea that it's "hilarious, transparent, obvious" that men are only concerned about this "because they want to see teh ladies with teh boobies" and are just making the rest up to fit that agenda is short-sighted, offensive, divisive, agenda driven twaddle. It might be true of a small number? I don't know. I do know that it certainly isn't true of myself and that it's a gross, and mostly entirely false, stereotype. It's also pretty ****ing sexist, but there you go.

Well it's very easy to spout that logic of "well I wouldn't be bothered if men were doing jobs I don't want to do" when men are not discriminated against, looked at like play thing to amuse women and are looked at like inferior beings to men. It's much more than taking jobs away from women.

[MTVN]

I do agree with TS tbf that the implication is that the male members who have commented on this have only done so because they're perverts and so should just have their points dismissed rather than engaged with. Never mind that a few female members have expressed the same view as have many other women in the media

[user104658]

Well it's very easy to spout that logic of "well I wouldn't be bothered if men were doing jobs I don't want to do" when men are not discriminated against, looked at like play thing to amuse women and are looked at like inferior beings to men. It's much more than taking jobs away from women.

There are plenty of jobs where men ARE a "play things to amuse women" and if men or women choose to do those jobs, enjoy those jobs, and actively want to do those jobs then that is no one else's business, and the idea that women now have the right to oppress other women to stop women being oppressed by men / society is ludicrous. It's not empowerment. It's judgement - what I believe they used to call "slut shaming". NO ONE on this thread has referred to the F1 girls as "objects to be drooled over yuck" or anything similar except Vicky (and by way of agreement, yourself) under the supposed guise of female empowerment and feminism. I call BS. These women have their own voices and can speak for themselves about their own careers and trying to suggest that they need other "better" women "who understand the real issues" to do it for them misses the point so spectacularly, that THAT is hilarious to me.

Trying to then shut down the opposing opinion (which is coming from males and many females alike, by the way) as "just stoopid dirty perv men wanting to drool" is incorrect, disingenuous and insulting... and doing so in the supposed vein of talking about equality and respect is blatant hypocrisy.

[Niamh.]

I do agree with TS tbf that the implication is that the male members who have commented on this have only done so because they're perverts and so should just have their points dismissed rather than engaged with. Never mind that a few female members have expressed the same view as have many other women in the media

Just seems very odd to me that all of a sudden men are interested in womens rights :shrug: I watch Darts and I watch F1 and I watch Boxing and I watch UFC, all have decoration girls prancing around holding signs etc. And it always leaves a bad taste in my mouth. What do they have to do with the sport?

[Niamh.]

There are plenty of jobs where men ARE a "play things to amuse women" and if men or women choose to do those jobs, enjoy those jobs, and actively want to do those jobs then that is no one else's business, and the idea that women now have the right to oppress other women to stop women being oppressed by men / society is ludicrous. It's not empowerment. It's judgement - what I believe they used to call "slut shaming". NO ONE on this thread has referred to the F1 girls as "objects to be drooled over yuck" or anything similar except Vicky (and by way of agreement, yourself) under the supposed guise of female empowerment and feminism. I call BS. These women have their own voices and can speak for themselves about their own careers and trying to suggest that they need other "better" women "who understand the real issues" to do it for them misses the point so spectacularly, that THAT is hilarious to me.

Trying to then shut down the opposing opinion (which is coming from males and many females alike, by the way) as "just stoopid dirty perv men wanting to drool" is incorrect, disingenuous and insulting... and doing so in the supposed vein of talking about equality and respect is blatant hypocrisy.

No you're hilarious acting like s**t like this doesn't help to carry on the view in society that women are there to amuse men. What do they have to do with the sports? Absolutely **** all and I applaud F1 for taking the back-dated practise out of their sport.

Be offended all you want, I'm just glad that this sport is moving forward and hope the others will follow suit

[Northern Monkey]

Well,Since my pervy male opinion is worthless on this here is female racing driver Rebecca Jackson saying exactly what i think


FH1JnG_Wisg

[MTVN]

Just seems very odd to me that all of a sudden men are interested in womens rights :shrug: I watch Darts and I watch F1 and I watch Boxing and I watch UFC, all have decoration girls prancing around holding signs etc. And it always leaves a bad taste in my mouth. What do they have to do with the sport?

Well I'm interested in the issue because I'm a big darts fan and while having walk on girls is not a necessity I do think it's part of the glitz and glamour of it all and that its fundamentally pretty harmless. If the reason for banning them is that its exploitative then I also think it's fair to point out that the women involved certainly don't feel exploited and that its high profile work for them that can advance their careers

It's not a big deal for me, it won't affect my enjoyment of the sport but it just feels like a heavyhanded and overzealous thing to do and it's like we're becoming ever more stuffy and puritan with these things

If being a man means it's not my place to say that then so be it but there's been a lot of women who have argued their case very well who can't be dismissed as easily. And like I said it's mainly men who are involved in the running of the PDC and F1 who have made this decision on their behalf because they think it's good pr. It's a token gesture really. If they were really that concerned themselves about women's rights then maybe they should do more to encourage female participation in their sports rather than patting themselves on the back because they've deprived grid girls of a job

[Niamh.]

Well I'm interested in the issue because I'm a big darts fan and while having walk on girls is not a necessity I do think it's part of the glitz and glamour of it all and that its fundamentally pretty harmless. If the reason for banning them is that its exploitative then I also think it's fair to point out that the women involved certainly don't feel exploited and that its high profile work for them that can advance their careers

It's not a big deal for me, it won't affect my enjoyment of the sport but it just feels like a heavyhanded and overzealous thing to do and it's like we're becoming ever more stuffy and puritan with these things

If being a man means it's not my place to say that then so be it but there's been a lot of women who have argued their case very well who can't be dismissed as easily. And like I said it's mainly men who are involved in the running of the PDC and F1 who have made this decision on their behalf because they think it's good pr. It's a token gesture really. If they were really that concerned themselves about women's rights then maybe they should do more to encourage female participation in their sports rather than patting themselves on the back because they've deprived grid girls of a job

I don't think the women involved are being exploited no, my issue with it, is, how it makes women as a whole look and how men as a whole view women. Obviously it's not just this one thing alone that decides that in society but imo it is one thing that contributes to it and I'm glad they're removing it from these sports that I enjoy watching as I really don't feel like it has any place there. I watch the Darts too and come on, the "glamour & glitz" :laugh: It's like a massive pub full of people dressed up as the 118 guys or Super Mario holding little signs (it does look like a fun night out though)

[MTVN]

I don't think the women involved are being exploited no, my issue with it, is, how it makes women as a whole look and how men as a whole view women. Obviously it's not just this one thing alone that decides that in society but imo it is one thing that contributes to it and I'm glad they're removing it from these sports that I enjoy watching as I really don't feel like it has any place there. I watch the Darts too and come on, the "glamour & glitz" :laugh: It's like a massive pub full of people dressed up as the 118 guys or Super Mario holding little signs (it does look like a fun night out though)

Big venue entertainment - big crowds, bright lights etc. Can't get more glamarous than a night at the darts

[Niamh.]

Big venue entertainment - big crowds, bright lights etc. Can't get more glamarous than a night at the darts

:laugh:

Ok we'll have to agree to disagree on that one, would love to go to one though

[user104658]

No you're hilarious acting like s**t like this doesn't help to carry on the view in society that women are there to amuse men. What do they have to do with the sports? Absolutely **** all and I applaud F1 for taking the back-dated practise out of their sport.

Be offended all you want, I'm just glad that this sport is moving forward and hope the others will follow suit

Where is the evidence that having walk-on girls at the darts "that women purely exist to amuse men"? I'm not saying such evidence doesn't exist, maybe it does, but it pretty much sounds like an assumption about something that you, personally, don't like seeing. Those women ARE there to amuse men... and I'm sure some women... just like ANY actor or performer is on stage or screen to amuse their audience. Just like the sportspeople themselves, at the end of the day, are there to amuse the crowd. Maybe their personal reasons for doing the sport are not that, and it's about skill and achievement, but at the end of the day... if professional sports weren't about amusing an audience... professional sports wouldn't exist because everyone would need a day job. Where is the evidence that this in any way affects general perceptions outside of pure entertainment?

But like I said, sure, there's a debate to be had about whether or not it's time to reign in / wind down / alter these traditions into something "healthier" for society.

That in no way entails trying to shut down the opinions of an entire gender by implying - unfairly and quite obviously, in my opinion, falsely - that those people are drooling pervs thinking with our genitals. That's a generalising insult based on nothing more than personal prejudice and the fact that you're incensed by something that is a "hot button issue" for you. Vicky made the allegation about "men in general" talking about social media commentary - which I already think is incorrect, short-sighted and sexist. You took the suggestion and quite openly, and baselessly, directed it at the male forum members posting in this thread because you're "pissed off" and THAT, not that I'm sure I need to point it out to you, is flat out against the forum rules.

[Cherie]

I have zero interest in darts, zero interest in F1, zero interest in modelling, and zero interest in seeing young girls waving off fast cars in tight dresses. Literally, none. I just straight up think that the concept that women (or anyone) should be able to dictate to other women what jobs are / aren't "appropriate" for them to do, and that this is somehow in the name of empowering women, is utterly ridiculous. I mean, there are plenty of things that men do for money that I wouldn't do, and that if I had a son I wouldn't particularly want him to do, that perpetuate male stereotypes etc., but do I want to stop other people from doing those jobs of their own free will? No, because that's authoritarian nonsense and it's none of my business how they choose to use their bodies or minds. That is free will, that is individualism. The idea that a women "must" behave in a certain way and "can't" or "shouldn't" do certain things is the absolute opposite of empowerment.

So... Secondly... and I have to be pretty blunt about this: The idea that it's "hilarious, transparent, obvious" that men are only concerned about this "because they want to see teh ladies with teh boobies" and are just making the rest up to fit that agenda is short-sighted, offensive, divisive, agenda driven twaddle. It might be true of a small number? I don't know. I do know that it certainly isn't true of myself and that it's a gross, and mostly entirely false, stereotype. It's also pretty ****ing sexist, but there you go.

that is the nub of the issue really

[Tom4784]

I just don't see the problem with keeping the girls and just adding guys to the mix as well, women and gays like racing too.

[Cherie]

I just don't see the problem with keeping the girls and just adding guys to the mix as well, women and gays like racing too.

that would be a more progressive solution

[Vicky.]

...Seriously though. I'm struggling to get my head around this comment, honestly. I mean yes, we all know that LT is on the wind up, and Alf is probably a bit of a perv, but other than that... a lot of male members including myself have commented in this thread and the idea that the above bolded statement actually applies? Look back at the male members who have commented here and tell me that you genuinely think that "it's about having scantily clad objects to drool over". That's a pretty big statement to be making about people who in my opinion, it does not apply to in any way shape or form.


Not All Men Are Like That disclaimer. Some do care, obviously. But not as many who are up in arms about this singular issue

:idc:

I am not trying to silence male opinions on this btw. I find it bloody hilarious how so many men who are generally silent on issues to do with womens rights are suddenly interested in womens rights. And many of them are simply concerned about their eye candy disappearing. This is all.

Vicky made the allegation about "men in general" talking about social media commentary - which I already think is incorrect, short-sighted and sexist

Men on my social media feed are indeed only up in arms as they are pervs. I know these people (unfortunately in some cases) and seeing them pretend to care about the womens income is hilarious. Infact, many have since turned to misogynistic language and insults about appearances against anyone who has a slightly opposing view so I think that may be my point proved.

[Vicky.]

I just don't see the problem with keeping the girls and just adding guys to the mix as well, women and gays like racing too.

I imagine as the scantily clad guys would not sell products.

It has actually been said a few times now elsewhere that this is nothing to do with womens rights or outdated sexism, but that its because the girls are no longer profitable for the companies involved. Of course there is no way of knowing that thats true and it could just be completely made up. But generally things are profit driven rather than ethics driven :laugh:

[Cherie]

I imagine as the scantily clad guys would not sell products.

It has actually been said a few times now elsewhere that this is nothing to do with womens rights or outdated sexism, but that its because the girls are no longer profitable for the companies involved. Of course there is no way of knowing that thats true and it could just be completely made up. But generally things are profit driven rather than ethics driven :laugh:

I would be inclined to believe this, they seem to have jumped very quickly to remove them, when there really isn't any need, the grid girls are hardly likely to be groped like those at the Presidents fund raiser

[bots]

i would hire them to change my tires when i return from the shops and cheer me in the driveway

[Livia]

I imagine as the scantily clad guys would not sell products.

It has actually been said a few times now elsewhere that this is nothing to do with womens rights or outdated sexism, but that its because the girls are no longer profitable for the companies involved. Of course there is no way of knowing that thats true and it could just be completely made up. But generally things are profit driven rather than ethics driven :laugh:

Abercrombie and Fitch? Although they axed their male models at the storefront because it was sexist and outdated. That was two years ago and no one said a bloody word.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/business/img/attachement/jpg/site1/20140419/eca86bd9e2eb14bc143d0d.jpg

[Vicky.]

I would be inclined to believe this, they seem to have jumped very quickly to remove them, when there really isn't any need, the grid girls are hardly likely to be groped like those at the Presidents fund raiser

Yup, remove them and out the blame elsewhere. If this is whats happened, its pretty genius really.

I still think that jobs where women are basically just seen as objects (and lesser than the cars, in this case) shouldn't really exist in the first place though. I do think its a step in the right direction to be abolishing them, whatever the actual reasons for doing so. Yes its sad for the girls who have lost their gig (its not a job really is it..as its only a day or so a year) but if it goes towards stopping men (NAMALT disclaimer again..) viewing women as just a thing thats there for their viewing/sexual pleasure then its a good thing IMO.

I don't buy the 'sex positive liberal feminism' tbh, as it seems to be all about men. I think I am now (oddly enough I would not have classed myself as a feminist until a year or so ago, maybe less) whats known as a second waver. I know I am not old enough to be such but everything they fought for, I agree with. I used to think prostitution should be legalized (check old prostitution threads..I was very much for this)..I am now of the opinion that the Nordic model is the way to go..where the prostitutes (male and female, not just female) are not breaking the law, but the punters are. It took a while to get where I am now, and I may well swing back at some stage, but so much of 'radical feminism' (which does not, as I thought, mean extremist) makes so much sense to me. Though I still don't understand the patriarcy arguments tbh.

[Vicky.]

Wow, a lot of brackets in that D:

[Vicky.]

Abercrombie and Fitch? Although they axed their male models at the storefront because it was sexist and outdated. That was two years ago and no one said a bloody word.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/business/img/attachement/jpg/site1/20140419/eca86bd9e2eb14bc143d0d.jpg

So men (nor women) did not care about men losing their jobs where they paraded round in underwear. I am shocked. Shocked I tell you.

[Cherie]

Yup, remove them and out the blame elsewhere. If this is whats happened, its pretty genius really.

I still think that jobs where women are basically just seen as objects (and lesser than the cars, in this case) shouldn't really exist in the first place though. I do think its a step in the right direction to be abolishing them, whatever the actual reasons for doing so. Yes its sad for the girls who have lost their gig (its not a job really is it..as its only a day or so a year) but if it goes towards stopping men (NAMALT disclaimer again..) viewing women as just a thing thats there for their viewing/sexual pleasure then its a good thing IMO.

I don't buy the 'sex positive liberal feminism' tbh, as it seems to be all about men. I think I am now (oddly enough I would not have classed myself as a feminist until a year or so ago, maybe less) whats known as a second waver. I know I am not old enough to be such but everything they fought for, I agree with. I used to think prostitution should be legalized (check old prostitution threads..I was very much for this)..I am now of the opinion that the Nordic model is the way to go..where the prostitutes (male and female, not just female) are not breaking the law, but the punters are. It took a while to get where I am now, and I may well swing back at some stage, but so much of 'radical feminism' (which does not, as I thought, mean extremist) makes so much sense to me. Though I still don't understand the patriarcy arguments tbh.

I have just heard some guy on the radio saying that in the hospitality tents 95 per cent of the hostesses greeting are female!

[Niamh.]

So men (nor women) did not care about men losing their jobs where they paraded round in underwear. I am shocked. Shocked I tell you.

:laugh:

[Livia]

So men (nor women) did not care about men losing their jobs where they paraded round in underwear. I am shocked. Shocked I tell you.

Yes... you're as shocked as I am.

[thesheriff443]

selling the life style of fast cars and hot women, they need Aristas sex robots now

[Kizzy]

Getting some men to see women as more than just tits and arse is hard...getting some women to see themselves as more than jut tits and arse is harder :/

[Ammi]

I just don't see the problem with keeping the girls and just adding guys to the mix as well, women and gays like racing too.

...yeah this would seem the obvious, Dezzy... to make the grid people inclusive of both male and female, rather than to say, oh we’re just going to get rid of completely..as it is with actual sports themselves which for instance had traditionally in the past been predominantly male or female...obviously there has been progression in many/most sports so there are now female F1 drivers, which wouldn’t have always been a thing, so it feels why can’t they extend this to the grid girls as well to include all genders and progress in all aspects..I mean they don’t have to obviously if that isn’t what they feel promotes the F1 image either but it would consider and prevent disappointment that seems to have been felt by grid girls...

...I don’t follow or know much about F1 racing tbh, would a grid girl equate to being something like a cheerleader in American sports..?...obviously there is some purpose other than just cheering on...but it would possibly be something a young lady would love to do in giving her much pleasure..?...and also opportunities to be so up front and personal with the whole F1 thing and drivers and mechanics etc, that maybe those are careers she is looking to be a part of in her future..so being a grid girl would be giving her opportunities to meet and chat with those who are at the very top in achievements of what she may be hoping for herself..?...and then maybe things like modelling etc as well could be a thing of a young girl thinking it’s a great opportunity to become ‘noticed’ through maybe some very high profile fashion houses having representation there in attending the event, if that tends to be the case as well...hoping she may be the next ‘Dior face’ because she’d been noticed and picked out as it were when she was a grid girl and that very important person had attended and noticed her/..and equally with guys if they were to be included..:laugh:...who knows with those opportunities...but yeah, making things inclusive for all would seem more the thing to ‘lose’ one image and progress to another...

[user104658]

Cheerleaders will be next to go, Ammi, and quite right too! Disgusting hussies in their short skirts, giving all women a bad name by having filthy pig-men leering at them. Ban this filth! Cropped short hair and cargo trousers for every one of them.

[Ammi]

Cheerleaders will be next to go, Ammi, and quite right too! Disgusting hussies in their short skirts, giving all women a bad name by having filthy pig-men leering at them. Ban this filth! Cropped short hair and cargo trousers for every one of them.

...ahhh and here was me thinking that cheerleading would become more inclusive of males as well at some point.. and that maybe you would also consider becoming one yourself so we could all cheer you on with your cheering on...I also think you might look quite fetching is a short skirt, TS...:lovedup:...

[Cherie]

Getting some men to see women as more than just tits and arse is hard...getting some women to see themselves as more than jut tits and arse is harder :/

that's a bit preachy, do you really know what is best for every woman or what their thoughts are

[bots]

Everyone in life promotes their best features. If someone is knowledgeable about trains, they speak about trains. If someone has shiny wavy hair, they grow long hair to show it off. Are we now saying that people should hide what are potentially the things that give them the most confidence in life?

Not everyone is the same and its ridiculous to apply the same rules to everyone.

[jaxie]

It's difficult because the girls have the right to choose to do the job and get paid for it. On the other hand if we are going to stop objectifying women, it has to start somewhere and somehow.

[Niamh.]

...ahhh and here was me thinking that cheerleading would become more inclusive of males as well at some point.. and that maybe you would also consider becoming one yourself so we could all cheer you on with your cheering on...I also think you might look quite fetching is a short skirt, TS...:lovedup:...

Actually there are male cheerleaders as well as female :hee:

[Livia]

Actually there are male cheerleaders as well as female :hee:

George W Bush was one! Although that's not really an endorsement, I know.

I don't have much of a problem with grid girls, walk on girls... any of that. Where I think it is problematic is that the message it gives young women is this: You can do this, you can earn good money, fund your education, meet eligible men, travel the world.... but only if you're tall, thin and pretty. Because that's what matters and that's how we work out your value as a woman.

[Niamh.]

George W Bush was one! Although that's not really an endorsement, I know.

I don't have much of a problem with grid girls, walk on girls... any of that. Where I think it is problematic is that the message it gives young women is this: You can do this, you can earn good money, fund your education, meet eligible men, travel the world.... but only if you're tall, thin and pretty. Because that's what matters and that's how we work out your value as a woman.

And if you point any of that out you must be fat, old and ugly because clearly any good looking girl would love to be flaunting it all for men :hee:

[Livia]

And if you point any of that out you must be fat, old and ugly because clearly any good looking girl would love to be flaunting it all for men :hee:

Well that's clearly not true... we're ****ing gorgeous.

[bots]

Well that's clearly not true... we're ****ing gorgeous.

Some pics, preferably at the race track please :hehe:

[Brillopad]

Abercrombie and Fitch? Although they axed their male models at the storefront because it was sexist and outdated. That was two years ago and no one said a bloody word.

http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/business/img/attachement/jpg/site1/20140419/eca86bd9e2eb14bc143d0d.jpg

It does raise questions as to why it took another two years for people to defend women in the same way especially given it is a situation more common for women.

[bots]

Grid Kids will replace grid girls from next season

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/42950040

[user104658]

Grid Kids will replace grid girls from next season

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/42950040

Child labour :worry:.

[GoldHeart]

Was going to make a thread on this Cal :love:

Having listened to both sides of the argument I think it's the woman's choice, apparently they do a lot behind the scenes as well and many of them are educated to degree level, no one should dictate who can do nor not do a job :nono:

Think we're going backwards :bored: , if the women were being disrespected and dressed with their bits showing then I could understand but that's not the case.

Once again the crazy miserable people are making a fuss over nothing, all these girls have lost their jobs thanks to all the pressure and because of stupid complaints :facepalm:.

There was even a grid girl on the morning show the other day who said if she wasn't in the F1 world she would never of learnt how to be a race driver stunt person. It's difficult to get into that job unless you have a stepping stone .

Many of these grid girls need the job financially and they probably want to do other stuff but need this to open the door for them .

[Niamh.]

Think we're going backwards :bored: , if the women were being disrespected and dressed with their bits showing then I could understand but that's not the case.

Once again the crazy miserable people are making a fuss over nothing, all these girls have lost their jobs thanks to all the pressure and because of stupid complaints :facepalm:.

There was even a grid girl on the morning show the other day who said if she wasn't in the F1 world she would never of learnt how to be a race driver stunt person. It's difficult to get into that job unless you have a stepping stone .

Many of these grid girls need the job financially and they probably want to do other stuff but need this to open the door for them .

They haven't lost their jobs, they've lost a once a year gig.

I think having kids there like they do with soccer is a great idea

[Cherie]

They haven't lost their jobs, they've lost a once a year gig.

I think having kids there like they do with soccer is a great idea

I heard this morning the kids are going to be mainly boys :worry:

[bots]

making it a more family oriented event has got to be a good idea. I presume that is the intent behind it.

[Niamh.]

I heard this morning the kids are going to be mainly boys :worry:

I'm sure they will have both, we'll see soon enough, F1 is back next month

making it a more family oriented event has got to be a good idea. I presume that is the intent behind it.

Totally agree

[bots]

I heard this morning the kids are going to be mainly boys :worry:

well they are inviting kids involved in the sport at a junior level, so its even more exclusive than that. Its kids from wealthy families that can afford to put a child on a race track with a car/cart etc in junior events.

[Livia]

I like the idea of kids doing it. And I'm sure it will be mainly boys right now because there are more boys interested in motor sport... but that'll change hopefully.

[GoldHeart]

They haven't lost their jobs, they've lost a once a year gig.

I think having kids there like they do with soccer is a great idea

But plenty of those girls need the money and they actually enjoy their job , it's actually more work than people give them credit for .

If there was something sleazy and dodgy going on with the grid girls then fair enough, but that's not it . And it's the women's choice to be a grid girl ,It's also a misrepresentation to assume they're all dressed in bikini's or something :facepalm:

I wonder if people find it sexiest when male models are involved in events :whistle: .

If they had grid kids people would say it's unsafe or they'd probably just wouldn't think it would work ,and they'd want to wrap them up in cotton wool .

But kids are involved in football so who knows .

[Niamh.]

I like the idea of kids doing it. And I'm sure it will be mainly boys right now because there are more boys interested in motor sport... but that'll change hopefully.

Yeah hopefully and despite what some people believe, I think, doing little things like removing women as ornaments and umbrella holders for the men and instead having kids who are hoping to become F1 drivers themselves, may actually help little girls to aspire to doing that instead

[Vicky.]

Which events have male models :suspect: Every single thing I can think of is women.

I like the idea of kids doing it.

[Livia]

But plenty of those girls need the money and they actually enjoy their job , it's actually more work than people give them credit for .

If there was something sleazy and dodgy going on with the grid girls then fair enough, but that's not it . And it's the women's choice to be a grid girl ,It's also a misrepresentation to assume they're all dressed in bikini's or something :facepalm:

I wonder if people find it sexiest when male models are involved in events :whistle: .

If they had grid kids people would say it's unsafe or they'd probably just wouldn't think it would work ,and they'd want to wrap them up in cotton wool .

They'll have to find a job elsewhere. Another job where the only criteria is that you were born pretty. Great message to young girls.

[Niamh.]

But plenty of those girls need the money and they actually enjoy their job , it's actually more work than people give them credit for .

If there was something sleazy and dodgy going on with the grid girls then fair enough, but that's not it . And it's the women's choice to be a grid girl ,It's also a misrepresentation to assume they're all dressed in bikini's or something :facepalm:

I wonder if people find it sexiest when male models are involved in events :whistle: .

If they had grid kids people would say it's unsafe or they'd probably just wouldn't think it would work ,and they'd want to wrap them up in cotton wool .

Like what events, I can't even think of an event where they have men ornaments? I can't really comment unless you give me an example

Also, regarding women relying on the money etc. It's a once a year gig, they can't be that reliant on it tbf

[Livia]

Which events have male models :suspect: Every single thing I can think of is women.

I like the idea of kids doing it.

That would surely be sexist, to have a man as a mere decoration while the women do stuff.

[GoldHeart]

Which events have male models :suspect: Every single thing I can think of is women.

I like the idea of kids doing it.

The Abercrombie & Fitch models, but apparently they've cancelled that .
There will be other male models for other events though surely ?.

I don't mind kids doing the F1 either , but I don't like how the grid girls are being talked about like they're crap or something. Plenty of grid girls might want to be racing drivers themselves and they have qualifications .

Like I said a grid girl was on TV talking about how she became a stunt driver .
The reaction from some feminists were as if the grid girls are seedy like lap dancers or something :facepalm: .

[Niamh.]

The Abercrombie & Fitch models, but apparently they've cancelled that .
There will be other male models for other events though surely ?.

I don't mind kids doing the F1 either , but I don't like how the grid girls are being talked about like they're crap or something. Plenty of grid girls might want to be racing drivers themselves and they have qualifications .

Like I said a grid girl was on TV talking about how she became a stunt driver .
The reaction from some feminists were as if the grid girls are seedy like lap dancers are something :facepalm: .

Seriously the example you gave was actually cancelled because it was sexist so basically you've actually disproved your own point :laugh:

[GoldHeart]

Like what events, I can't even think of an event where they have men ornaments? I can't really comment unless you give me an example

Also, regarding women relying on the money etc. It's a once a year gig, they can't be that reliant on it tbf

https://promotional-models.com.au/services/male-models-topless-waiters/

And this is international , there's topless waiters that do promotional work for charity events ,parties etc all over the place.

[GoldHeart]

They'll have to find a job elsewhere. Another job where the only criteria is that you were born pretty. Great message to young girls.

If you want to get into that then , we could debate about photoshopped models making young girls feel insecure :shrug:.

[Niamh.]

https://promotional-models.com.au/services/male-models-topless-waiters/

And this is international , there's topless waiters that do promotional work for charity events ,parties etc all over the place.

Well first off that isn't an event, it's a model agency advertising models for events, they have these for women too. Would I enjoy going to a party and being served by a topless waiter? Not really it seems a bit unhygienic to me to be honest.

But on that subject, private events are private events not world wide watched sports events

[James]

I watched this video on YouTube about it earlier. She says it is comparable to how good-looking people are employed to sell and promote things, in many different fields, because people (male and female, and not necessarily being-attracted-to-way) like looking at good-looking people. I think it is a fair point.

FH1JnG_Wisg

[Niamh.]

If you want to get into that then , we could debate about photoshopped models making young girls feel insecure :shrug:.

That's terrible too, I don't see how you're using that as a counter argument to what Livia posted though?

[Niamh.]

I watched this video on YouTube about it earlier. She says it is comparable to how good-looking people are employed to sell and promote things, in many different fields, because people (male and female, and not necessarily being-attracted-to-way) like looking at good-looking people. I think it is a fair point.

FH1JnG_Wisg

That video was already posted James :idc:

[GoldHeart]

That's terrible too, I don't see how you're using that as a counter argument to what Livia posted though?

Because more young girls are influenced by photo shopped models and social media more than grid girls . Kim Kardashian probably has alot of young female fans and she posts topless and rude pictures . And girls will see that thinking it's the norm.

And grid girls are models in a way so it doesn't surprise me that they have to be good looking etc . Plus it's a marketing ploy to get more men at the racing events , it's like a sports car being advertised by a glamorous assistant .

I know you don't like it niamh ,but it's not as bad as people are making out.

[James]

That video was already posted James :idc:

Oh ...should have read the thread back, or maybe I did and forgot about it. :o

[Niamh.]

Because more young girls are influenced by photo shopped models and social media more than grid girls . Kim Kardashian probably has alot of young female fans and she posts topless and rude pictures . And girls will see that thinking it's the norm.

And grid girls are models in a way so it doesn't surprise me that they have to be good looking etc . Plus it's a marketing ploy to get more men at the racing events , it's like a sports car being advertised by a glamorous assistant .

I know you don't like it niamh ,but it's not as bad as people are making out.

Well yes I agree with you 100% but it's not like people don't agree with this aswell is what I mean, that's been an issue talked about many times as far as I can see, this is just another one

The bit I've bolded - Why are they only trying to get men there and tbf men won't see them unless they're already watching anyway so how is it going to get more men watching?

[GoldHeart]

Well yes I agree with you 100% but it's not like people don't agree with this aswell is what I mean, that's been an issue talked about many times as far as I can see, this is just another one

The bit I've bolded - Why are they only trying to get men there and tbf men won't see them unless they're already watching anyway so how is it going to get more men watching?

I don't think they're only trying to get men there,but it's male dominated :shrug:. But there's women interested in the sport too .

There is grid men in other countries , but I don't think they'd have men & women doing the job together.

[Niamh.]

I don't think they're only trying to get men there,but it's male dominated :shrug:. But there's women interested in the sport too .

There is grid men in other countries , but I don't think they'd have men & women doing the job together.

Like where? The only time they had grid men that I can remember was in Monaco a couple of years back but maybe I'm wrong about that, what other countries have grid men?

So therefore if they're looking for new viewers shouldn't they be targeting women if it's so male dominated right now? .....maybe that's what they're doing right now then?

[GoldHeart]

Like where? The only time they had grid men that I can remember was in Monaco a couple of years back but maybe I'm wrong about that, what other countries have grid men?

So therefore if they're looking for new viewers shouldn't they be targeting women if it's so male dominated right now? .....maybe that's what they're doing right now then?

Yes Monaco but also Austria I think .

Well I can't see them aiming it more at women .

[Alf]

IWXkXXa99d8

[Niamh.]

Yes Monaco but also Austria I think .

Well I can't see them aiming it more at women .

Monaco only one year and I only ever remember grid girls in Austria, tried googling but can't find any grid men there

But either way, do you really think having grid girls would get men to watch F1 if they don't already? Like how would that conversation go

John : Hey fred, why don't you watch F1?
Fred : Because it's boring watching cars go round in circles
John : But at the end they have a row of girls hold umbrellas for the men
Fred : OH MY GOD, why has no one ever told me this??? What channel is it on?

:fan:

[Niamh.]

IWXkXXa99d8

Not really since, it's scrapped :fan:

[Alf]

Not really since, it's scrapped :fan:If your commenting on the video, at least watch it first.

[Niamh.]

If your commenting on the video, at least watch it first.

Just the title is all, can't watch videos at the moment

[GoldHeart]

Monaco only one year and I only ever remember grid girls in Austria, tried googling but can't find any grid men there

But either way, do you really think having grid girls would get men to watch F1 if they don't already? Like how would that conversation go

John : Hey fred, why don't you watch F1?
Fred : Because it's boring watching cars go round in circles
John : But at the end they have a row of girls hold umbrellas for the men
Fred : OH MY GOD, why has no one ever told me this??? What channel is it on?

:fan:

Well I'm going by debates on morning telly ,and someone said grid men are in Austria :shrug: .
I was trying to Google some to find as well :joker: , the ones I found were mostly the Monaco ones with polo shirts on.

Well yeah if people were never interested in F1 sports , grid girls won't necessarily make them gain an interest . Or they might watch them then change channel probably.

[Livia]

IWXkXXa99d8

Oh dear, Alf.

I'm sorry but I don't want to listen to another rant about feminism, with a male voice, in support of scantily clad models.

[Alf]

Oh dear, Alf.

I'm sorry but I don't want to listen to another rant about feminism, with a male voice, in support of scantily clad models.Just for you here's a video with a female voice.


dwMBRwbatYU

[Livia]

Just for you here's a video with a female voice.


dwMBRwbatYU

Alfie, thank you... but do you have anything by someone who's not an airhead with an axe to grind?

[Liberty4eva]

It's kind of like these feminists own a copyright on the female body and it can only be used in ways that they approve. It doesn't seem to matter at all if the grid girls are actually HAPPY and want to do the job. That's the thing about this that annoys me: how is this going to make anyone happier? These feminists seem to only get joy by making other people miserable.

Call me crazy, but I would bet everything aside from the clothes on my back that jealousy did play a role this. These feminists can try to deceive everyone (even themselves) but they didn't quite deceive me. It sucks to see other women get all the male attention, doesn't it?

If there is a silver lining maybe this will help men do something more meaningful than watch cars drive around in a circle.

[GoldHeart]

It's kind of like these feminists own a copyright on the female body and it can only be used in ways that they approve. It doesn't seem to matter at all if the grid girls are actually HAPPY and want to do the job. That's the thing about this that annoys me: how is this going to make anyone happier? These feminists seem to only get joy by making other people miserable.

Call me crazy, but I would bet everything aside from the clothes on my back that jealousy did play a role this. These feminists can try to deceive everyone (even themselves) but they didn't quite deceive me. It sucks to see other women get all the male attention, doesn't it?

If there is a silver lining maybe this will help men do something more meaningful than watch cars drive around in a circle.

Well this is it . Where do we draw the line ?? They like to bitch & moan about women doing jobs where they're posing , but those type of jobs have been around forever.

On telly they said what's next banning model ads and posters ??, they showed a picture of Keira Knightly in a skimpy outfit advertising perfume.

So it does make you wonder how far they're going to push this rubbish , and there's hypocrisy as they're supposed to stand for empowering women but instead they're stopping them doing what they want :facepalm:.

I know not everyone likes the idea of f1 girls or walk on girls but it's their choice. I still don't see what the fuss is about.

For year's there's been glamorous assistants and walk on models . If they were being inappropriate or getting treated badly then i could understand the complaints .

[Northern Monkey]

Model Kelly Brook, a former Formula One grid girl, described the role as “one of the best jobs I’ve ever had”.

She said: “You dress glamorously and obviously it’s about being presentable but I never felt I was taken advantage of.”

Fellow grid girl Rebecca Cooper wrote on Twitter: “Ridiculous that women who say they are “fighting for women’s rights” are saying what others should and shouldn’t do, stopping us from doing a job we love and are proud to do. PC gone mad”

“If we don’t do something to stop this where will it end? No grid girls, no cheerleaders, female singers being told what to wear on stage, no models in magazines? I’ll fight for my right to choose what I wear, where I work and to keep a job I love.”

Red Bull boss Christian Horner, who is married to former Spice Girl, Geri Halliwell, said grid girls added glamour to F1.