Calls to Ease Strict Checks on F1 Drivers Emotions

Montezemolo: F1 Overreaching On Emotional Freedoms

23/12/2024

Debate intensifies around Formula 1 regulations as Luca di Montezemolo publicly questions tightening rules and strongly advocates preserving emotional drama for fans.

Regulators should be more lenient with Formula 1 drivers for the sake of “emotion” in the sport.

That is the view of Luca di Montezemolo, longtime former Ferrari president, whose tenure at Maranello spanned the eras of Niki Lauda, Gilles Villeneuve, Michael Schumacher, and Fernando Alonso.

He stated that Formula 1 is now too preoccupied with monitoring every action or word from the drivers, including swearing, tough battles, or track limits.

“F1 should involve healthy duels. What would they have done in the duel between Villeneuve and Arnoux? Would they have put them in jail?”

“I think we are overregulating emotions, contact during overtaking, or track limits. In other words, Formula 1 is becoming a precision watch.”

“But we must leave room for emotion, courage, and the drivers’ ability not to be obsessed with millimeters. That’s one of the points we should consider and adjust a little.”

Montezemolo was also asked about the return to Formula 1 this year of another prominent 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 in bringing him to Alpine, and I’m happy for him, even though the road to victory is long.”

“I’ve seen some good races from Gasly, but it’s not enough. However, I think they will improve next year.”

Calls to Ease Strict Checks on F1 Drivers Emotions Calls to Ease Strict Checks on F1 Drivers Emotions

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