Abir Evelyn CamdenExploring the complexities of overtaking in Formula 1’s current era, with insights from Williams F1’s James Vowles and Aston Martin’s Mike Krack.
The lack of overtaking since the introduction of the current generation of Formula 1 cars in 2022 has left many observers puzzled. James Vowles, Williams F1’s team principal, doesn’t outright criticize the current regulations but outlines how teams are contributing to a dilution of on-track spectacle.
“I don’t believe the regulations have failed. It would be entirely unfair to claim so,” Vowles moderates. “The competition is quite close in the midfield. There are overtakes. Even based on the data we can now see, it’s still better than the car generations of 2021 and 2020.”
“However, there is no doubt that we have developed the cars in such an extraordinary way that, as you develop downforce, it makes them harder to follow. But I still believe that we are now closer than we were before, which was the intention behind all this.”
“As to whether the situation will improve in 2025, I don’t think so. There’s no reason to believe that the situation will get better next year. As for 2026, the rules are still being ratified as we speak, so it’s hard to assess the situation.”
Mike Krack, Aston Martin F1’s team principal, concurs with Vowles that the regulation isn’t a failure and holds strong potential: “I agree with James. I don’t think the regulation is a failure at all.”
“I think it has allowed for different designs from the start, then obviously a dominance that nobody wants, but it’s a fact. But overall, we still have one more year to go before welcoming the new cars.”
“As James said, they are not yet 100% set, and we are looking forward to them. But honestly, I believe the current regulation is well-crafted and designed, and we have had some great races behind a team.”
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