Lewis Hamilton praises new Formula 1 regulations amid thrilling Ferrari battles
Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton has described the new Formula 1 regulations as the most enjoyable of his career following a thrilling multi-lap battle at the Chinese Grand Prix.
The seven-time world champion compared his recent on-track duel with team-mate Charles Leclerc to his famous 2014 rivalry with Nico Rosberg.
His positive assessment arrives amid ongoing paddock debate regarding the profound impact of the newly introduced car and engine rules.
The sport’s updated hybrid power units now feature an equal split between internal combustion and electrical power.
The rise of ‘yo-yo racing’
These energy-starved powerplants force drivers to constantly manage battery levels throughout a lap.
This dynamic has led to what critics have dubbed “yo-yo racing” during the opening two grands prix of the season.
Competitors frequently pass and re-pass each other across multiple laps as their systems deploy varying levels of electrical energy.
However, the 39-year-old insists this strategic energy management mirrors the pure, close-quarters competition found in grassroots motorsport.
“If you go back to karting, it’s the same thing. People going back and forth, back and forth, you can never break away,” Hamilton explained.
“No one ever has ever referred to go-karting as yo-yo racing. It’s the best form of racing, and Formula 1 has not been the best form of racing in a long, long time.”
Aerodynamic gains and qualifying concerns
Beyond the engine regulations, the former Mercedes star highlighted the significantly improved aerodynamic characteristics of the current machinery.
The British veteran noted that these lighter, more nimble cars finally allow drivers to follow closely through high-speed corners without suffering a sudden loss of downforce.
Despite his undeniable enthusiasm for Sunday race days, he acknowledged the inherent paradox created during Saturday qualifying sessions.
The intense need to harvest electrical energy leaves the cars feeling under-powered during a single flying lap, effectively reducing the ultimate driving challenge.
Pushing for improvements ahead of Miami
While the experienced racer admits to disliking both the power deployment and straight-line modes, he remains convinced the overall package benefits the sporting spectacle.
Governing body the FIA recently met with team bosses to rigorously assess the current qualifying limitations.
Officials are attempting to find actionable improvements before the upcoming Miami Grand Prix in five weeks’ time.
Furthermore, immediate regulatory tweaks have already been implemented for this weekend’s race in Japan to slightly reduce the total volume of energy cars are permitted to recover.
