Max Verstappen has labelled the changes to the Formula 1 regulations introduced for the Miami Grand Prix as a “tickle”, indicating more needs to be done on the current rule cycle.
Verstappen’s displeasure with the regulations in their previous format was well documented, labelling it as “Formula E on steroids” during pre-season testing.
He is not alone in his assessment, with other drivers having concerns over closing speeds, and loss of spectacle in qualifying due to cars superclipping on the straights.
Changes to the rules have been brought in for this weekend’s Miami GP, including modifications to energy deployment delivery to alleviate the Dutchman’s and other drivers’ concerns.
Confirming he was happy with the changes, Verstappen made clear he sees the enhancements as just the beginning of finding a solution.
“I mean, the positive thing is that we had some nice meetings with Formula 1 and the FIA, and I think it is a starting point, hopefully for the future,” Verstappen told media on Thursday in Miami, including Motorsport Week.
“In a few years’ time, maybe I’m not here anymore, and I really hope that for the future drivers as well, there is more input to come from the drivers to the organisers in general.
Max Verstappen praises “huge step forward”
Verstappen however, did praise the collective unity and coming together to make the changes happen, hinting politics could remain a barrier for future changes.
“Because I do think that most of the drivers here, we have a good understanding and a good feel of what is needed to make Formula 1 a good product, a fun product.
“I think there’s already been a huge step forward in terms of the communication, and with the changes that have been made, I think it is more of a tickle because Formula 1 is a very complex and political sport, but I think everyone has tried their best to at least do something, but of course, it won’t change the world.
“It is a tickle, and it is not what we need yet to make it really flat-out, but as I said, it is complicated to get everyone to agree, and I just hope for next year, we can make really big, big changes.”
Verstappen’s trademark honest assessment underscores the work that still needs to be done, urging caution for those expecting a silver-bullet solution in Miami.
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