Three World Champions Critique F1 Regulation Changes
Three Formula One world champions—Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Lando Norris—have expressed strong criticism of the recent overhaul in F1 regulations following qualifying for the Australian Grand Prix.
The regulatory changes have led to a perception that the cars have deteriorated significantly, with Norris describing the transformation as a shift from the "best to worst" cars within a single season.
Norris Voices Strong Disapproval of New Cars
Lando Norris, McLaren’s defending champion, was particularly harsh in his assessment, stating that driving the current cars "sucks" and suggesting they might be the "worst" ever constructed. He emphasized the challenges posed by the new balance between combustion engine power and electrical energy.
Despite his championship win last season, Norris qualified only sixth on the grid at the Melbourne circuit on Saturday. He reiterated concerns that have been prevalent throughout the pre-season and intensified at Albert Park.
“We’ve come from the best cars ever made in and the nicest to drive, to probably the worst. It sucks,”
“Everyone knows what the issues are. It’s just the fact it’s a 50-50 split between power from the combustion engine and electrical energy.”
When questioned about whether this direction aligns with Formula One’s future, Norris was clear in his stance.
“Not really, no,”
“As drivers, we have the interest of the sport in our minds better than others. The rules have been changed because that’s what manufacturers want. But if you have 20 other drivers complaining, I don’t know what’s better for the sport or not.”
Hamilton Highlights Distraction Caused by Energy Management
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton shared Norris’s concerns, focusing on the complexity of energy management required during laps, which he believes detracts from showcasing pure racing skill.
“The power’s good when you’ve got it, it’s just it doesn’t last,”
“We start the lap, half throttle coming through the last corner, and a third, a quarter of a straight, and then you go to full throttle. It’s completely against what Formula One is about: flat-out, full attack and you’re lifting and coasting and stuff. That element is not very good and I don’t think the drivers particularly like it.”
Russell Secures Pole as Drivers Struggle with New Regulations
Mercedes’ George Russell achieved pole position for the season’s opening race with a commanding performance, posting a time over eight-tenths of a second faster than McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, who qualified fifth. However, the intricate energy management demands imposed by the new regulations have been met with widespread driver dissatisfaction.
Verstappen’s Qualifying Incident Highlights Challenges
Max Verstappen experienced a significant setback during qualifying when he spun into a barrier at turn one. The incident occurred as the rear of his car locked up under braking, a consequence of the energy regeneration process drivers must now adapt to.
The Red Bull driver lost control as the rear axle locked, causing the car to slide across the runoff area and resulting in a 20th-place qualifying finish. Red Bull is currently investigating the cause of the issue.
“I’m definitely not having fun at all with these cars. You can make up your mind, but if you look at the onboard, you see enough, right?”
“The formula is just not correct, and that is something that is a bit harder to change, but we need to. It’s going to be a long season, that’s all I’m telling you.”
Verstappen’s Warning About Enjoyment and Future in F1
The four-time world champion has been outspoken about his dissatisfaction with the new regulations, even warning that he might quit the sport if he stops enjoying it. His comments in Australia added to the growing chorus of disapproval among drivers.
