Regulators should be more lenient with Formula 1 drivers for the sake of “emotion” in sports.
This is the opinion of Luca di Montezemolo, former president of Ferrari for many years, whose reign at Maranello spanned the eras of Niki Lauda, Gilles Villeneuve, Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso.
He said Formula 1 is too preoccupied these days with monitoring every action or word of drivers, including swearing, manly fights or track limits.
“F1 should be made up of healthy duels. What would they have done in the duel between Villeneuve and Arnoux? Would they have put them in prison?”
“I think today we exaggerate the regulation of emotions, the contact in overtaking or the limits of the track. In other words, Formula 1 is becoming a precision watch.”
“But we must leave room for emotion, courage and the ability of pilots not to be obsessed with millimeters. This is one of the points on which to reflect and change things a little.”
Montezemolo was also asked about the return to Formula 1 this year of another leading Italian, Flavio Briatore. The flamboyant 74-year-old is now a powerful advisor at Alpine.
“No one should forget that Flavio worked miracles with Benetton. Luca de Meo made the right choice by taking him to Alpine, and I am happy for him, even if the road to victory is long.”
“I've seen some good races from Gasly, but it's not enough. However, I think next year they will improve.”
F1
France
