Formula 1: The 2022 F1 season saw arguably the biggest overhaul in rules, which ended up changing the dynamic of the grid. FIA primarily did this to serve one purpose, i.e. reducing the gap between running cars and make the sport more competitive. However, the intent and impact as it seems, needs quite a lot of bridging. Although cars are running up close, overtaking has become a challenge for teams because of a recent decision of the FIA. Many drivers including George Russell have come out to voice their concern. Follow Formula 1 Live Updates on InsideSport.IN.
Recently, the topmost motorsport body decided to shorten the DRS zone on start/finish straight in Baku. Though a 100 meters cut in the zone, this lead to difficulty in overtaking for multiple drivers. The result of this was a monotonous race for the audience and a frustrating one for the drivers. Now, the F1 paddock is all set to move to USA for the second Miami GP later this week. In a latest update, FIA has again decided on shrinking two DRS zones at Miami International Circuit by 75 meters each.
After the disappointment in Baku, drivers have come out with their concerns on the Miami decision.
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George Russell and Charles Leclerc voice their concern against latest FIA move
Grand Prix Drivers’ Association director and Mercedes F1 driver George Russell voiced his opinion against this move ahead of the Miami GP. In an interview reported by race.com, the Briton said that drivers were not kept in loop before advancing with this decision,
“All of us didn’t really understand why they’ve been shortened. None of us were consulted about it or asked our opinion on it,” said the Brit.
“The race speaks for itself in Baku. I didn’t know whether we’re going to keep it the same for this weekend. DRS is there to aid overtaking and it’s always exciting when you’ve got these big DRS advantages and it gives you that opportunity to fight. Clearly, in Baku it was way too short,” he added.
Apart from his, Ferrari prodigy Charles Leclerc also backed the same opinion. The Monegasque driver is hopeful of FIA rolling back on this move.
“I don’t think it is the right direction. With the cars that we have at the moment, it’s still quite difficult to follow. It’s better than the previous generation cars but still not good enough to actually have less DRS,” said Leclerc.
“Hopefully, in the future races, we won’t shorten them,” added the Ferrari man.
Amidst range of voices that are coming on the issue, Fernando Alonso stands away from the majority. The Spaniard backed this move by the FIA considering it pro-competitive move. Tell us what you think of this in the comment section below. Follow Formula 1 Live Updates on InsideSport.IN.
