– Not only many current Formula 1 drivers have not yet come to terms with the new regulations in the premier class. Several ex-drivers also view the new rules critically – including four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel.
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Speaking to SVT Sport, the former Red Bull and Ferrari driver explained that he could understand the criticism from Max Verstappen, world champion Lando Norris and co. “from a sporting perspective” and that he agreed with it.
“It’s probably fun to drive the cars – but not the racing,” said Vettel, who issued a warning in this context and explained: “I see it very critically that you must not lose the DNA and the heart of the sport.”
In Formula 1, it must always be about finding “the fastest driver in the fastest car,” said Vettel. But many no longer see this as given under the new regulations, because energy management plays a possibly too large role.
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Even in qualifying, drivers can no longer go full throttle under the new regulations because they have to make sure to charge their battery and not consume too much energy. In the race, many find the racing too artificial.
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The FIA and Formula 1 reacted to some points of criticism this week and slightly adjusted the regulations. The changes, which Vettel hopes will make the drivers “happier” above all, will take effect from the next race in Miami.
“Ultimately, the drivers are the faces of the sport,” explains Vettel and emphasizes: “When they get out of the car and are full of adrenaline and excited, then the people on the screens and in the stands are also excited.”
Vettel competed in Formula 1 between 2007 and 2022, driving for BMW-Sauber, Toro Rosso, Red Bull, Ferrari, and Aston Martin during this period. His most successful time was with the Bulls, with whom he became world champion four times in a row between 2010 and 2013.
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