P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has called for Max Verstappen to be handed a race suspension or be issued with Super Licence penalty points for his outspoken comments on the sport’s new regulations cycle.
Former Formula 1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has recommended a race suspension or Super Licence penalty points for Max Verstappen’s critical remarks about the new F1 regulations. Verstappen has expressed disapproval of the changes, comparing them to Mario Kart and describing the new cars as “Formula E on steroids.” Several drivers have supported him in their opposition to the new rules.
The FIA and F1 have made adjustments to the regulations during the five-week break, leading to some improvement in the quality of racing at the recent Miami Grand Prix. However, top drivers, including Lando Norris, remain critical, with Norris suggesting the removal of the battery from the cars.
Montoya, known for his outspoken nature, emphasized the importance of respecting the sport and suggested consequences for Verstappen’s comments, such as a race ban or penalty points on his licence. Despite his current stance, Montoya has previously praised Verstappen for his outspokenness and suggested that the sport needs him.
Drawing on his own experience from the 2003 season when rules changed due to lobbying by Ferrari and Bridgestone against Michelin tires used by Williams, Montoya is familiar with the impact of regulations on competition. Ultimately, Montoya’s perspective highlights the complexities of expressing opinions in F1 while maintaining respect for the sport and its stakeholders.
