The map shows the distribution of Formula One motor racing tracks in 2015.

Describe the geographical distribution of Formula One motor racing tracks shown on the map.

Explain two reasons for increased global participation in sport.

For one national sports league you have studied, examine the relationship between the location of the teams and the residence of its supporters.

Award [1] each for any of the following:

• the majority are in the Northern Hemisphere
• three in the Southern Hemisphere
• the majority are in North West Europe
• there are none in Africa or India
• four are in Southeast Asia
• other valid statements, eg HICs, MEDCs, core–periphery.

Award maximum [2] for a simple listing of countries.

Participation may refer to professionals or individuals playing sport in their leisure time. Credit explanations related to supporting sport in a public place.

A range of possible factors could be cited, for example:

• rising incomes and affluence have made participation in sport more affordable
• increased leisure time
• increased provision of sporting facilities
• media coverage increases awareness of sporting events eg Paralympics.

Award [1] for the reason and award [2] for further development and/or exemplification.

For example:
A major sporting event, such as the Tour de France watched by millions on the television [1], has stimulated interest in cycling and resulted in increased participation in cycling activities [2].

Also, increased provision of sport facilities [1], such as swimming pools and gyms, together with more disposable incomes and leisure time, has resulted in the growth of these sports [2].

An example of a national sports league should be clearly identified, together with the location of the teams and residence of its supporters.

Teams at the top of a hierarchy, such as in the English Premier Football League, are located in major urban areas and have a wide sphere of influence. They have supporters from around the world, as well as many local supporters.
Teams that are lower in the hierarchy, including many small local clubs, are located in many towns and villages, and their supporters are mainly drawn from the local area. These may also be supporters of much more important teams that are higher in the hierarchy.

Good answers may show a recognition of a sports hierarchy and the sphere of influence of its supporters, supported by examples. Mention could also be made of other factors, such as the role of the media, sponsorship and advertising, in influencing the sphere of influence. Another approach would be to question how the relationship changes over time or to query what “national” means.

Responses that achieve band D are likely to be descriptive accounts of a sports league and its supporters. The response should refer to a national sports league, eg the Bundesliga (German soccer), or Indian Cricket League.

At band E, responses either provide greater explanation and detail of the relationship or begin to examine the different scales or timescales of the relationship.

At band F, expect both.

Marks should be allocated according to the markbands.

The concept of geographical distribution was well understood by most candidates. Weaker answers merely gave a list of countries; better responses gave some quantification. Some candidates described the distribution as “below and above the equator” – North and South are the correct terms to use.

This was quite well answered, but the reasons were often not sufficiently developed to be awarded full marks.  

Many candidates showed limited knowledge and understanding. Some did not describe a national sports league. However, there were some good and interesting responses, choosing sports leagues in a variety of countries; detailed; recognizing hierarchies and spheres of influence, the role of media and sponsorship. Weaker candidates sometimes used non-national sports such as UEFA and the Olympics.