Lewis Hamilton advocates for more ‘authentic’ circuits on the Formula 1 calendar. The premier class is increasingly traveling to brand new locations, where, according to the Brit, not enough consideration is given to penalizing mistakes on the track. He praises characteristic tracks like Suzuka and Silverstone, where drivers still have to ‘pay the price’ for a misstep.
Hamilton believes that modern Formula 1 circuits have become too forgiving. Not only do new tracks lack the risks of yesteryear, but existing circuits have also traded grass and gravel strips for wide asphalt zones over the past few years. As a result, mistakes are no longer penalized as they used to be, says the seven-time world champion. His comments follow the Mexico City GP, where several drivers left the asphalt in the opening round to return to the track via the safe escape route – without losing time.
After that weekend, Hamilton was asked about the modern character of many circuits. “You can never go too far when it comes to safety,” he stated. “But today’s circuits are very different from those in the nineties or the early 2000s,” he added. “Back then, the run-off areas were grass, and if you went too far, you had to pay the price. You ended up in the gravel or damaged the car. Nowadays, you can just go wide and get back on the track. I’m not a big fan of that – but it’s the reality now.”
Characterful Circuits
Hamilton then emphasized his fondness for historic circuits like Zandvoort, Silverstone, and Suzuka, which he believes truly have character. “I always describe them as old houses – they have a soul,” the Brit grinned. “New circuits often lack that.” He also suggested that many modern tracks offer fewer opportunities to truly compete with your opponents, especially during the shorter sprint races.
“Some sprints are just processions,” Hamilton lamented. “Next year we have Singapore – we won’t see a single overtaking move for nineteen laps. Of course, it works on other circuits,” he added. Since his debut in 2007, the British veteran has seen the sport change significantly. “Overall, I think Formula 1 is heading in the right direction,” he concluded. “It’s great to see how quickly the sport is growing worldwide, and I’m glad we’re attracting so many new fans. When I started, the audience was largely the same – and the old management was not very progressive.”
