Red Bull drivers complain about the number of FIA rules
After a Brazilian Grand Prix marked by numerous overtakes in the pit lane, Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez discuss the new rules introduced by the FIA and raise questions about them.
Last weekend at the Grand Prix in Interlagos, the International Automobile Federation introduced a new rule regarding the pit lane. After the controversy in Mexico, where many drivers blocked each other in the pit lane to get a clear lap, the FIA decided to implement a rule in Brazil prohibiting drivers from stopping in the pit lane. Therefore, in Brazil, drivers were allowed to slow down by staying as far left as possible in the pit lane to allow others to pass on the right if they wished. However, with the arrival of numerous new rules, some drivers are starting to complain.
Max Verstappen dissatisfied
The triple world champion was one of the first to give his opinion on the matter, taking a stance similar to Max Verstappen. He had been under investigation in Mexico for blocking in the pit lane, without any consequences. In Brazil, he overtook several drivers in the pit lane in order to avoid being slowed down, resulting in occasionally confusing situations. The Dutch driver discusses the FIA’s position.
« Sometimes, there are too many rules that they have to take into account. And too many policies as well to make a change or make a decision,” he said, emphasizing the fact that the drivers are the first judges of the situations they face all year on all the circuits around the world.
What role for the GPDA?
So, can the GPDA, the association of Grand Prix drivers, play a role in this modern Formula 1? Although it is composed of Formula 1 drivers, this association does not have any influence on the decisions made by the FIA. Therefore, it cannot vote in favor or against a decision made by the FIA. Of course, the GPDA is essential as it allows drivers to express their concerns and propose changes to the FIA. However, is that enough?
According to Max Verstappen, the GPDA should have more importance. (e) Of course, I would like the GPDA to have a say. I would like to be the owner of Formula 1 if I could, but that’s not the real world.
Sergio Perez also addressed this point and the need to give more power to the GPDA. « I think it would be better if the GPDA could have a bit more influence. Because the GDPA doesn’t represent just one driver, it’s the majority of us. We live the sport, and it would be good to see in the near future that they could take into account the GPDA’s opinion as an association » explained the Mexican.
In recent years, Formula 1 has faced numerous scandals. Apart from purely sporting ones, many FIA regulations have disrupted the running of Grand Prix races and have occasionally led to poor management. This is the case, for example, with track limits, which often pose a problem on certain circuits, or the allocation of penalties, where judgment can sometimes be unequal. Faced with frustrated drivers, wouldn’t the solution be to give them more power?
