How F1 squandered an opportunity to experiment
Vetoes and vested interests are choking real change in Formula 1, argues STUART CODLING, even as we look forward to new rules in 2021
One of Formula 1's greatest contradictions is that while it's a hotbed of technical innovation and continuous transformation, the people who actually call the shots are change-phobic to an almost hysterical degree. Worse still, since Bernie Ecclestone short-sightedly granted the teams a voice in decision-making, the blunt hand of tawdry self-interest has crushed many new ideas at the embryonic stage.
Older readers and trivia whizzes will recall that Elvis died on the toilet. Well, despite an extraordinarily long sitting, and a copious amount of heaving and straining, F1 has managed to pass the 2021 regulations without suffering a heart attack. Sadly, one of the more interesting ideas that could have been implemented, and which was mooted to be trialled next year, has fallen foul of the it-can't-be-done crowd.
Share Or Save This Story
Can Alpine’s latest regime change shift its course?
Why long Sainz courtship was only one factor in eventual Williams union
How F1’s tech war has transformed in 2024
The apparently humble F1 component with remarkable attributes
The statistical F1 anomaly Verstappen will seek to remedy in Singapore
The hard-to-shift narratives Mercedes needs Antonelli's next steps to dispel
How Alonso played designer in Aston’s new limited edition special
F1 uncovered: A weekend behind the scenes with a team physio
IndyCar’s Arlington track layout will leave drivers "exposed" - Newgarden
Skoda reveals Rally2-inspired EV race concept
FIA prize-giving in Rwanda set to go ahead despite Marburg virus outbreak
Williams to “compromise” next season ahead of 2026 rules overhaul
Ranking the real 2025 F1 driver line-up pecking order
Will Sauber's C44 go down as F1's best point-less car, or are there better contenders?
When McLaren conquered F1 and the Indy 500
How Hulkenberg transformed his F1 career with Haas
Subscribe and access Autosport.com with your ad-blocker.
From Formula 1 to MotoGP we report straight from the paddock because we love our sport, just like you. In order to keep delivering our expert journalism, our website uses advertising. Still, we want to give you the opportunity to enjoy an ad-free and tracker-free website and to continue using your adblocker.
