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Hamilton addresses contrasting F1 regulation stance amid Verstappen criticism

by sports••0
Hamilton addresses contrasting F1 regulation stance amid Verstappen criticism
Lewis Hamilton has opened up about his differing opinion compared to Max Verstappen on the current Formula 1 regulations.

“I think a lot of drivers are not enjoying it… I think a lot of drivers are not enjoying it.”

– Lewis Hamilton

The Scuderia Ferrari driver, who was greeted with questions about his thoughts on the new regulation in contrast to several other drivers, noted that drivers tend to appreciate cars more when they are at the front of the grid.

“I’m just saying that I’m enjoying racing. Naturally, when you have a good car and you’re competitive, it’s nice to be at the front,” Hamilton explained.

The British driver, however, suggested that Verstappen’s apparent frustration may be influenced by the lack of a competitive car this season.

Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen – Photo: Race Pictures

“He’s had that clearly for the last four or five years, and it’s been pretty smooth sailing for him. This is the first year it’s not been so, but I can’t answer why he’s not enjoying it as much. It’s definitely a lot different,” he added.

Highlighting what he enjoys about the current cars in contrast to other drivers, Hamilton noted how he largely enjoys their nimble nature.

“Some drivers, I think a lot of drivers, are not enjoying it. I don’t really know; I’m just personally enjoying it. It’s a lighter car, more nimble, and more fun to drive.”

The seven-time champion, however, was quick to flag several parts of the regulation he also isn’t a fan of.

“Do I love the power deployment? Absolutely not. I actually really dislike that. Do I love the SM [Straight Mode]? Not particularly. But as a whole, I think it’s exciting for the sport,” he explained.

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Lewis Hamilton in Japan – Photo: Race Pictures

However, the Ferrari driver expressed belief that the criticism of the regulation also coincides with the audience growth the sport is currently experiencing.

“At a time when the sport is at its highest, I think, visually and brand-wise, it has the most income it’s ever had. F1: The Movie has done aamazingly We’ve got an Oscar. It’s just a really good time where lots of people are watching, and we’re actually having some battles, as opposed to processions where you’re just watching cars pull each other around.”

Hamilton, however, concluded by noting that every driver has their opinion, and it is expected that not everyone enjoys new cars whenever regulation changes occur in the sport.

“Everyone’s got to have an opinion. Every time we change a car, some people will love it; you can’t please everybody. If our car suddenly turns into a nightmare to drive, maybe it won’t be as enjoyable. But the fact is, we’re having a good fight, with a chance to fight for wins. That always makes it far better. When you’re not in that position, you can see, because you’ve been here a long time, that that’s highly unlikely in a year. It’s very hard to stay motivated in that, but that’s where you just have to continue to try and dig.”

“I was trying to do that last year, even though we knew that we weren’t developing and had no chance of really winning. It’s tough for everybody within the team, but that’s part of the sport, I guess.”

Verstappen, among several other drivers, has echoed their dislike for the current regulation. The Dutch driver has labelled the regulation as “Formula E on steroids,” while his former Red Bull Racing teammate Sergio Perez has described the overtakes recorded as largely fake.

Norris blasts new regulation in scathing assessment

Earlier, Lando Norris joined in on the criticisms of the new regulation. The McLaren driver, who has experienced a challenging start to the campaign, chose strong words to describe the regulation.

Norris detailed how the sport has regressed from its best regulations to what he considers the worst ever.