Lewis Hamilton says drivers should be consulted over future Formula 1 rule changes, after the FIA confirmed new regulations which will make the cars three seconds a lap faster for 2017.
In an effort to create more exciting cars, the FIA has backed calls for new bodywork regulations which will deliver additional downforce, increase speeds and lower lap times.
The concept, proposed by McLaren, would introduce wider cars, running on wider tyres.
But Hamilton says the rules are a mistake, and suggests drivers should be more involved in any future rule changes.
“I don’t agree with the changes that are made and have been made for many, many years, so we just live with it,” the reigning world champion told the media on Wednesday.
“I think the drivers should be consulted, I’m sure they’ve been involved more on recent decisions.
“We do have a feeling of the car, we do have some ideas of what could be better.
“We do know what is not good on the car, particularly some of the drivers who have been driving 10-15 years, we’ve been through all the different rule changes and we know which ones work and which ones didn’t.
“I would say it’s a bad thing.”
A new knockout qualifying system will be introduced in time for the 2016 season opener in Australia next month, but Hamilton doubts the changed format will add much to the show.
“I don’t really feel like it’s going to change much to be honest,” he said.
“I hope it’s a surprise for us all, I hope it does.
“Generally the format should be the same, just put some more focus on getting the laps in, keeping people out, making sure everyone’s out all the time.
“It would be good for spectators maybe.”
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