Revolution or setback? F1 does not agree
The new Formula 1 rules have the paddock divided. On the one hand, pilots like George Russell defend them tooth and nail. On the other hand, champions like Lando Norris call them a historic step backwards.
The result? Races with more overtaking, but a debate that does not stop growing.
A Sunday of records… and complaints
F1 left the Australian GP selling success: 120 overtakings compared to 45 last year and an epic battle between Russell and Charles Leclerc. The numbers speak volumes, but the feeling among the drivers is mixed.
“We have gone from the best cars ever made in Formula 1, and the most enjoyable to drive, to probably the worst,” Norris declared on Saturday.
Russell, winner in Melbourne, responded bluntly: “If he was winning, I don’t think he would be saying the same thing.”
The key is a radical change in philosophy. Leclerc explained it perfectly after taking the podium:
“Before, it was more about who is the bravest by braking as late as possible. Now there is a little more strategic mentality behind every move you make because every activation of the boost button, you know you are going to pay a huge price later.”
No more ‘all or nothing’ in braking. Now whoever best manages their energy wins.
Mercedes rules, but doubts fly
The silver star team confirmed its favoritism with a double. However, it was not the ride that many predicted. A strategic error by Ferrari opened the way for them and from there they managed the advantage.
While Russell and Leclerc fought their duel, rookie Kimi Antonelli showed why he is the great promise: he rose from seventh place to the second step of the podium with forceful maneuvers.
But not everything is joy. Security concerns are already on the table.
Norris warned after the race that he expects “a big crash” due to the enormous differences in speed when one car deploys its extra power and another does not. A scare between Franco Colapinto and Liam Lawson at the start almost proved him right.
At Aston Martin they go further. Adrian Newey warned that his car vibrates so much that drivers could suffer “permanent nerve damage.”
The world watches… and mocks
The controversy crossed borders. From IndyCar came a joke that went viral on social networks. The Chip Ganassi team listed terms like “battery management” and “downshifting on straight lines” and then finished: “Yeah, we don’t do that here. We race.”
Some drivers compare this new era to video game racing, where overtaking is more mathematical than instinctive.
The only thing that is clear is that nothing is clear. The FIA has room to intervene if the spectacle or safety is in danger. With a possible five-week break after Japan, it could be the perfect time to tighten the screws.
Meanwhile, China will be the ultimate test. A different circuit will bring new answers to the table… and surely, many more questions.
