Bernie Ecclestone shares Max Verstappen’s concerns about the new Formula 1 cars. The former F1 boss even fears a loss of fans because of the new rules deployed during races, particularly the cars’ electric phase. “Maybe the fans like it, but I don’t think so. The danger is that we will lose fans. I really hope I’m wrong,” he says.
The comment from former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone came shortly after Verstappen’s criticism in Bahrain, in which the Dutchman described the cars as “Formula E on steroids.” Current F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali does not share those concerns, but the 95-year-old Brit is unconvinced. He thinks there will be confusion at the start of the season. According to him, the new regulations require a different way of looking at the sport. “Everyone has to re-learn Formula 1,” Ecclestone told RTL/ntv and sport.de.
‘The DNA of Formula 1’
Ecclestone is mainly worried about the direction of the top tier and what implementing the new rules will mean for the fans. “It’s less about racing, and more about: more rules, more prescriptions for the drivers, don’t do this, don’t do that,” the Brit concludes. The DNA of the sport is being altered, shifting the focus more toward development. “The DNA of Formula 1 is that it is a world championship for drivers, not for engineers. The sport, however, now competes more with Formula E. Maybe the fans like that, but I don’t think so. The danger is that we will lose fans; I really hope I’m wrong.”
‘Searching for the Best Cook’
It isn’t just Ecclestone and Verstappen voicing criticism. Voices from multiple corners of the paddock are watching nervously for the start in Australië. After the tests in Bahrain it emerged that the power unit’s battery drains quickly and that overtaking on the straights is difficult with reduced output. As a result, confidence looks thin. Ecclestone stresses that the new way of racing will open an entirely new chapter in Formula 1. The Brit is hoping for a few positives in the championship this year. He just doesn’t see that happening at Aston Martin. “Apparently we’re searching for the best cook. We’ll keep our eyes open,” Ecclestone concludes after a remark by Fernando Alonso about the new cars.
According to Ecclestone, the rules would not be working in Verstappen’s favour. Most opinions circulating actually emphasise that the four-time world champion does have an edge, because he adapts easily to tougher regulations. “The rules certainly don’t play into Max Verstappen’s favour and his driving style,” Ecclestone says, referring to the Dutch driver’s aggressive, attacking approach behind the wheel.
