The changes to make F1 cars more reliant on electrical power have sparked a lively debate among the racing community, and Max Verstappen is not happy.
The recent Chinese Grand Prix was filled with highs and lows for the engine modifications, but the narratives need some time to cook, writes Rant Sport’s Loki de Pontes.
Drivers are unhappy
Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli recorded his first-ever victory in Shanghai, becoming the second youngest Grand Prix winner of all time, just after Verstappen.
Red Bull’s veteran driver has been the most vocal opposition towards the new car regulations, and this race only angered him further.
After an already terrible sprint qualifier, a horrific start to the Grand Prix saw him fall all the way down to 12th.
While the Dutchman fought tirelessly to get himself back in the points, he eventually had to retire due to cooling issues.
Verstappen certainly did not hold back from giving his opinion on the current state of the sport.
“It’s still terrible. I don’t know, if someone likes this, then you really don’t know what racing is about,” he said after the race.
His other quoted highlights included comparing the new cars to Mario Kart and labelling the changes “a joke”.
Finally, he insinuated that most drivers feel the same hatred for the new regulations, and wagered that “real F1 fans” do too.
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Pundits are split
Journalists and media personalities haven’t been able to reach a consensus, at least for the time being.
Ralf Schumacher did not mince words on Verstappen, calling on him to improve his team’s position and “stop whining”.
Former champion Jacques Villeneuve praised the “exciting” season opener in Australia, while acknowledging the discontent among drivers.
On the other hand, Will Buxton questioned the drivers prioritising energy conservation over pushing opponents, asking whether it is truly “racing”.
Martin Brundle, one of the early defenders of the new engines, has himself raised concerns about superclipping (another energy-preserving tactic) and how the new cars will hold up in rainy weather.
My take
I think Max Verstappen’s comments are a bit hyperbolic and disrespectful to those who genuinely enjoy the new changes.
Ferrari’s civil war in Shanghai was very entertaining to most fans and proves there is merit to the argument that the new regulations can improve the spectacle.
At the same time, Schumacher’s reply comes off extremely dismissive.
Drivers are the heart and soul of the sport. If they truly do not like the new way of racing, that is deeply concerning for the future of F1.
I echo David Coulthard’s request for patience. New regulations are always going to be a difficult sell to drivers and viewers alike.
Brundle’s recent flip-flopping is a textbook example of delivering opinions before you can think them through.
We need to actually spend more time with these cars before we can give an informed opinion.
Will these changes ruin the sport of F1? Will drivers adjust to the new style and deliver an even more entertaining product?
Only time will tell.
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