Like many Formula 1 fans, Max Verstappen also misses the loud noise of the atmospheric V8, V10, and V12 engines of the past. “The current situation may be somewhat better for the ears, but for passion and experience, it would be better to return to the loud engines of the past,” says the four-time world champion from Red Bull.
Max, do you ever worry about the direction the sport is taking? Do you feel the right choices are being made to continue to captivate fans in the long term?
Max Verstappen laughs at the dilemma he feels. Then: “Nowadays, unfortunately, you have to be careful with what you say, as statements are quickly picked up. But if I may express myself diplomatically: I am not a fan of street circuits.”
Gravel Traps
“In the past, gravel traps were everywhere, which was actually much better. But some circuits we share with MotoGP, who don’t like gravel traps. So sometimes it’s not up to Formula 1 and it’s just the reality. I can’t change it, but I would certainly have liked to see some things differently, that’s for sure.”
You’re not alone. There’s an ongoing debate about whether the sport should return to the whistling sound of the atmospheric V8, V10, and V12 engines…
“That would mean we’d have to go back to using earplugs. I think not only the drivers, but certainly also the fans in the stands would absolutely find it better and more appealing. That sound and the extra decibels evoke much more emotion, it makes the overall experience of watching an F1 race much more intense. As a young boy in the paddock, I used to wear earplugs. It wasn’t even about the pure speed, but just the sound… I always found that very impressive. Granted, the current situation is perhaps better for hearing, but for passion and experience, it would be better to go back to the loud engines of the past.”
