Formula 1 radio rules clampdown is bad for fans - Red Bull's Horner
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner believes Formula 1 may have gone too far with the new radio restrictions and is concerned it will reduce its entertainment value
From this weekend's Australian Grand Prix, there will be a stricter enforcement of the rule that states "the driver shall drive the car alone and unaided".
FIA race director Charlie Whiting says the new rules, which heavily restrict what a team can tell the driver, will not spoil the "juicy content" enjoyed by fans, but Horner is not so sure.
"I hope we haven't gone too far on the radio stuff because it's taking away an element of dialogue between the race engineer and the driver," said Horner.
"Some of that for the fans and behind the scenes can be quite entertaining.
"There is entertainment through the radio. What is fascinating is to hear guys communicating at speeds they are achieving.
"In the heat of battle, that radio content can provide good entertainment.
"The bit you should really hear is the intercom, there are far more interesting discussions going on the intercom than there are on the radio."
Horner suggested that though the intention was positive, the outcome may not have the desired effect on the racing because modern cars are so complex.
"Sometimes we don't think through the consequences," he said.
"I don't think anybody enjoys hearing a driver being told how to operate his car.
"The problem we have is that the complexity of the cars is so great now, the assistance that is required from the pitwall and behind the scenes is very different to three or four years ago.
"Is it right to help a driver find space in traffic or to [know to] pit now?
"We need to find that right balance and I'm not sure we will immediately in one weekend.
"It is going to be a voyage of discovery."
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About this article
| Series | Formula 1 |
| Teams | Red Bull Racing |
| Author | Lawrence Barretto |
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