Lando Norris has offered a dim view on the possibility that Formula 1 drivers can offer sway and influence on a change of direction in the sport, as discontent with the sport’s new regulations continues.
Norris has been one of several leading drivers to voice their displeasure over the new regulations since they began this season.
The 50-50 split on the V6 hybrids has led to lowering laptimes and a new element of strategy, which has bred counter-intuitive driving.
With cars now having to be notably slower in some fast parts of circuits to achieve an overall faster lap, the drivers are fighting their own natural instincts.
Norris voiced his insolence to the new cars at the opening round in Melbourne, with Charles Leclerc launching an expletive-laden tirade during qualifying.
And, of course, four-time World Champion Max Verstappen has been the leading figure in opposition to the ruleset, to the extent where he has hinted at a forthcoming retirement.
After Oliver Bearman’s 50G accident at Suzuka on Sunday, Grand Prix Drivers’ Association [GPDA] director Carlos Sainz was damning in his assessment, indicating an accident of similar speeds at a different circuit may have presented worse consequences.
Norris, after taking fifth place in Japan after a battle with Lewis Hamilton, was asked by Viaplay what he’d like to see the FIA do to act on the current issues.
“There’s no point in saying it, honestly,” the reigning World Champion said.
“It doesn’t matter what we say.”
Asked why there was no point, Norris replied: “Because as long as the fans enjoy it, that’s all that matters.”
When put to him that drivers’ enjoyment is also crucial, Norris laughed: “Clearly not.”
The more drivers arrive trackside with faces like smacked backsides, unable to contain their apparent boredom, the more the drawing board may need looking at by the powers that be, and wonder if they need to go back to it.
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