Former driver Alexander Wurz states that the WhatsApp group for F1 drivers has ‘exploded’ following the new regulations. Necessary criticism has already been heard from the drivers in recent weeks, particularly regarding safety. After Oliver Bearman’s shocking crash during the Japanese GP, the discussion flared up again. Wurz reveals that the drivers are organizing via the chat and discussing how they can best enforce regulatory changes.
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Alexander Wurz was recently a guest on the Lift and Roast podcast, where he gave a glimpse into the F1 drivers’ WhatsApp group. The Austrian, chairman of the GPDA, founded the chat about ten years ago, but rarely received so many messages. “That famous WhatsApp group for the drivers, which I founded in 2015 or 2016, is extremely active,” he said. “The chat has really exploded; everyone has rarely been so involved.”
‘Drivers express their emotions’
According to Wurz, active thought is being given to changes to the current regulations, but also to the input of the drivers. “The drivers express their emotions and come up with various – technical or otherwise – solutions. In addition, we discuss how we can convince everyone that drivers must be heard.”
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Following Bearman’s crash at Suzuka, many F1 drivers again called for adjustments. “When it comes to safety, it’s easier to change things,” Max Verstappen responded to the press in Japan. “So maybe we should use that word to finally implement some adjustments.” Carlos Sainz, also co-chairman of the GPDA, was also outspoken about the incident. “We have already warned that this would happen,” he said. “With these speed differences, these kinds of accidents are inevitable.” According to the Spaniard, however, the FIA mainly listens to feedback from the teams. Colleague Lewis Hamilton emphasized: “The drivers have no say.”
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