That Max Verstappen was (and is) skeptical about the rule changes implemented in Formula 1 was actually already known. According to him, the sport needs fundamental changes. On Thursday during his media session ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, he expressed it as follows when asked if the recent adjustments could bring back the fun in the sport for him. “More is needed than just tinkering. This will not change the world.”
Read more Frustrated Lance Stroll harshly criticizes current Formula 1: ‘We are destroying racing’
In the race-less period after the Japanese Grand Prix, intensive consultations took place in recent weeks between all stakeholders to adjust the current rules here and there and thereby improve the entertainment value of the sport. The drivers were also given a voice in this. Verstappen called the latter in Miami a starting point for the future.
“We have had good meetings with Formula 1 and the FIA. I think that is a starting point for the future. Formula 1 is a very complex and political sport. I think everyone has done their best to at least improve something. In a few years, when I might no longer be here, I hope future drivers will have more say towards the organizers. I think most drivers here understand well what is needed to make Formula 1 a good and fun product. That is already a big step forward in terms of communication. With the changes that have been made, it feels a bit like a first step. I hope we can provide more and more good input,” said Max Verstappen. And with a jab: “If that had been the case five or six years ago, we might not be in this situation now.”
‘Hopefully a big change next year’
The adjustments to the current technical rules are certainly not enough for Verstappen. “Qualifying just has to be flat out. But it’s complicated. I especially hope that next year we can implement a big change. What I said, this is a small step, more is needed next year than just some tinkering, that’s for sure.”
Read more Chaotic rain race threatens in Miami, but Oscar Piastri finds it ‘interesting anyway’
Also read: Emergency meeting about GP Miami due to weather forecasts
Formula 1 boss Stefano Domenicali stated last week that in his view there is absolutely nothing wrong with the sport and that the current set of rules is fine. Max Verstappen was also asked about this briefly in Miami.
Diplomatic: “I’m only talking about the purity of the sport and what we need. As drivers, we can judge that because we are in the car. But everyone understands that Formula 1 is not just sport, but also business. That’s why politics sometimes comes into play.”
Read more Piastri tempers expectations rule changes: ‘It is not some kind of second season start’
Read everything about the GP Miami here
