Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard has warned that the FIA is unlikely to significantly change its new rulebook because of protestations from Max Verstappen.
The new regulations cycle continues to polarise opinion, with the new 50-50 hybrid power units becoming a sore point of discussion for many of the drivers on the grid.
But none more so than Verstappen, who has been frank and unrestrained in his blunt assessment of the new cars, likening them to “Formula E on steroids” and the Mario Kart series.
It has led to the Dutchman’s disillusionment increasing significantly, and has made noises about a potential forthcoming retirement from the sport.
Like many of the drivers, Verstappen is hoping for some sort of solution to enhance the driving experience, and has stated that he has spoken to the FIA about one.
But speaking on the Up To Speed podcast, Coulthard, when asked if the sport’s governing body would be willing to cooperate, was sceptical.
“I don’t think they will,” the Scotsman said.
“I think Max is a generational-defining driver. I think Hamilton was that person before. You have to admire his absolute speed, his absolute commitment.
“And actually, you have to admire his what you see is what you get passion.
“It’d be very easy for him just to do short one-word answers and not feed this conversation, but because he’s passionate about it, because he cares about it, he’s not prepared to say nothing, just cruise and collect, which, some other drivers, maybe are just in that phase of their career.”
However, Coulthard admitted that, whilst F1 would no doubt carry on without him, Verstappen’s non-presence would be a seismic event.
“The sport is bigger than any individual driver,” he said. “The sport has been around for a long time, will continue to be around.
“But, I think that it would be a huge loss if Max was to take time out.”
With the GPDA WhatsApp group said to be “blowing up” with ideas and the FIA promises “aces up their sleeves” with potential rule tweaks, the return of F1 in Miami will keep drivers and fans hopeful of much-needed changes.
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