The paddock reacts following the new FIA rules

10 days before the season opener in Australia, the rule change for the awarding of the 2009 driver’s title, validated Tuesday by the FIA, caused a bombshell and shook the entire paddock. Here are some reactions from drivers – former and current -, team managers, and… Bernie Ecclestone!

The majority of the drivers are opposed to this change, believing that this rule will disrupt the clear understanding of the championship.

Heidfeld, BMW driver:

« It’s a matter of taste, but I don’t like it. I found the old rule better. With the points system, it was more understandable: it’s the one who is consistently among the leaders who should win. »

Sutil, Force India driver:

« I feel that many things are constantly changing. In recent years, there are always new things. It seems to me that they are desperately trying to make F1 increasingly interesting and spectacular, but maybe they should just give people time to get used to it. »

Alonso, Renault driver:

« I don’t understand the need to constantly change the rules of this sport. I believe that such decisions can only bewilder the fans. Formula 1 has been developing for over 50 years thanks to the teams, sponsors, drivers, and above all, thanks to the fans worldwide, and none of them have been able to present their point of view to the FIA. »

Button, Brawn GP driver:

« I think the system is logical and interesting, even if some people might find it difficult to understand why, for example, a driver with 60 points can be champion instead of one with 100. The new rule certainly encourages systematically seeking victory, but it could be risky because after nine races, we might end up with a driver who has already won the title while the guy who is second is only 18 points behind. »

Alain Prost, driver from 1980 to 1993, 4-time world champion:

« I have always been in favor of stable regulations in F1 because that is what has ensured its success over the years, but trying to improve the show is a good thing. And it’s not easy during a crisis. So I am waiting to see the results before criticizing or making a judgment. »

Jean Pierre Beltoise, driver from 1967 to 1974, 5th in 1969:

« When I was young, in 1958, I remember being scandalized: the one who became world champion, Mike Hawthorn, had won one Grand Prix, while Stirling Moss, in 2nd place, had won four.

The F1 teams were also taken aback on Tuesday; despite working together within the FOTA on the future of F1, they regret not having been consulted.

Montezemolo, president of Ferrari and FOTA:

« After the decisions made by the FIA World Council, FOTA wishes to express its disappointment and concern as they were made in a unilateral manner. The regulations defined by the FIA […] risk deviating Formula 1 from its true essence and the principles that make it one of the most popular sports in the world. These perpetual changes can disrupt and surprise manufacturers, teams, the public, and sponsors. »

Briatore, Renault F1 team director:

« We need stability and these changes are shocking. […] The economic crisis worries everyone and in F1 we must be efficient in facing it, but sometimes we are not satisfied with the measures that are imposed on us. »

Bernie Ecclestone, on the other hand, expressed his satisfaction with this rule change. « It’s a different interpretation of my idea of medals, but it’s a good start. The idea is to encourage drivers to go for the win. If a driver is in second place, they will aim for victory rather than thinking they only stand to gain two more points, which is not a great motivation to try to overtake an opponent. »