During the upcoming race weekend in Miami, a modified F1 regulation will be used. In response to criticism from both fans and the drivers, the FIA introduced a number of subtle changes in an attempt to preserve the character of the sport and improve safety. Lando Norris called it ‘a step in the right direction’ and emphasized at the same time that the drivers and fans are largely on the same page.
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According to critics, the new regulations during the opening races led to ‘artificial’ overtaking maneuvers and excessive lifting during qualifying laps. Moreover, the differences in speed caused by energy management created dangerous situations. Oliver Bearman’s crash in Japan painfully exposed those risks. The FIA’s adjustments are meant to address these problems. According to Lando Norris – who is cautiously positive about the recent developments – the drivers are united about the current regulations.
“We also want Formula 1 to remain as we know it, with full-on racing as the starting point,” he told the media in Miami. “Unfortunately, that is not always the case now. Good racing does not mean that one driver runs with 100 percent battery and another with zero. Cars should be able to race closer together, with less weight, better tires, and less influence from dirty air and temperatures. Batteries and wings as we know them now should not be all-determining.
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Business
The reigning world champion explained that it can be different. “And that is what we as drivers want to work towards,” he assured. “But because of the bigger picture – with engine manufacturers, partners, teams, and the fact that it is ultimately a business – that is easier said than done. Hopefully, in the coming years, we can return to ‘normal’ and create better races.” A sensitive point is the so-called ‘yo-yo racing,’ where a lost position is immediately regained with the help of an electric boost. Norris, however, advocates a more natural form of racing, like he knows from his karting days: “Close on the rear bumper, slipstreaming, and with twenty cars in a long train.”
“What we as drivers want is ultimately also better for the fans,” emphasized the McLaren driver. “But it remains a business, so we have to find a balance. In that respect, we have less influence, although together with the FIA we are making progress; they are really trying to improve things. The big changes we are aiming for just take time.” About the shared vision of the drivers, he added: “From first to last place: we all want to race flat out and as close together as possible. That is also what the fans want – in that respect, we are on the same page. At the same time, we have to accept that as drivers we sometimes have limited insight into the business side of the story. We are not always right, although I think our wishes are better for the sport and the fans.”
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