Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali believes there is a lack of “emerging stars” in Formula 1, something he blames on the strict testing regulations.
Whilst F1 introduced a mid-season test this year at Mugello, something that won’t be seen in 2013, many teams opted to use their established drivers rather than test drivers – which Domenicali says is limiting the chances for the younger generation to impress.
“I will not speak negatively about the current drivers, but it is clear that we are not seeing any big stars emerging as seen in the past,” he told TotalRace.
“If we don’t organise more tests within F1, this problem will become greater. That’s why I’m trying to convince others that the category has to realise that tests in F1 are critical, not only for the development of the car and team, but also for a new generation of drivers who will not have the chance to grow and be seen.”
“We are running the risk that, without testing, we could make it impossible for new stars to emerge because they will [arrive] without the proper experience. They will make mistakes and be under pressure.”
In an effort to combat this issue the sport introduced a Young Driver Test at the end of the season. The aim is solely to give rookie drivers who have competed in three F1 races or less, the opportunity to get behind the wheel of an F1 car. However, the test has caused some issue this year with several teams opting to hold theirs earlier in the year. Firstly at Silverstone, then Magny-Cours after the Italian GP and finally in Abu Dhabi.
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