Lewis Hamilton says Formula 1 drivers have no real influence when it comes to rule changes, as concerns grow over the sport’s latest power unit regulations.
Debate intensified during the Japanese Grand Prix weekend. Drivers raised fresh concerns about energy management and on-track safety.
The issue came into sharper focus after Ollie Bearman crashed during the Japanese GP.
He encountered a closing speed of around 50km/h compared to Franco Colapinto, highlighting the risks under the current rules.
The FIA is now set to hold key meetings to evaluate possible changes.
Drivers have already shared feedback, but Hamilton made it clear he does not expect that input to carry much weight.
“The drivers don’t have a say,” he told media including Motorsport Week. “We have no power. We’re not on the committee; we have no voting rights.”
Carlos Sainz echoed those frustrations. He suggested the current situation reflects a system that prioritises team perspectives over driver experience.
“That’s the problem when you listen only to the teams, that they will think the racing is OK because maybe they’re having fun watching it on the TV,” he said.
“But from a driver standpoint, when you are racing each other, and you realise that there can be 50km/h speed delta, that’s actually not racing.
“There’s no category in the world where you have this kind of closing speeds because that’s when big accidents can happen because it catches you by surprise, you defend late, it catches you or the car [behind].
“Anyway, I really hope they listen to us, and they focus on the feedback we’ve given them, rather than only listening to the teams.
“[I hope] they come up with a plan for Miami that improves the situation, and a plan also for the medium-term future of these regulations to keep improving it.
“Even if you cannot improve everything for Miami, do another good step in Miami and then a big step for, I don’t know if it’s next year or later in the season.”
Despite the heavy impact, Bearman avoided serious injury.
The FIA confirmed it will continue discussions with key stakeholders in the coming weeks as pressure mounts to address drivers’ concerns.
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