Horner: “Formula 1 has serious questions it needs to answer”
As a strategic group meeting takes place this Wednesday in Geneva to begin outlining the contours of the new regulations planned for 2021, Christian Horner, director of the Red Bull team, shares his vision for the future of the discipline.
The Formula 1 Strategy Group meeting today in Geneva is expected to discuss the issue of driver head protection system projects as well as a possible modification of the format of Grand Prix weekends.
In addition to these subjects, the group responsible for making important decisions regarding discipline must begin to focus on the upcoming aerodynamic and engine regulations that are set to take effect in 2021.
Christian Horner, who heads the Red Bull team, gives his opinion on this future regulation which is an important step in determining the future of the sport: « I think what is really interesting is that Formula 1 is indeed at the crossroads of new regulations. These regulations are theoretically coming in 2021 and there will probably be a lifespan of eight to ten years on these engines, so what we are looking at is actually the relevance of Formula 1 up to about 2030. »
For the Briton, the questioning goes beyond the small world of Formula 1: « Now, by 2030, how many people will actually drive cars? Will they be autonomous? Will they be electric? The world is changing so quickly in this sector. »
The director of the four-time world champion team thinks that discussions around this new regulation will be an opportunity to determine what F1 truly is: Formula 1 has serious questions it needs to answer today in its choice for the engine of the future. What is the main purpose of Formula 1? Is it technology or is it a sport and entertainment, with man and machine at the absolute limit?
The arrival of new owners in the discipline who have a vision of what Formula 1 should be is a factor that creates expectations: « I feel this with the new owners who have entered Formula 1, creating great entertainment, generating great content, noise, sound, the excitement of seeing the drivers as stars is absolutely essential for them. »
To conclude, the director of the Austrian team has high hopes for this new regulation: « I hope, with the opportunity that comes with the change in regulations currently being discussed, that the fundamental aspects of costs, performance, and attractiveness for fans, and therefore the noise and acoustics of these engines, will be a key factor in this new regulation; that it will produce good races, reduce costs, and bring back the appeal that engines from a bygone era used to generate. »
