P1racenews AI automatic summary:
McLaren: Backmarker “threat” shows F1’s cost cap is working
Starting from the 2021 season, Grand Prix teams have been operating under budget cap regulations in order to prevent excessive spending and ensure the sustainability of the grid. Despite challenges faced by top spenders, there is a consensus that the cap has leveled the playing field. McLaren CEO Zak Brown believes that the cost cap has had a significant impact on the sport, evident by the grid closing up and becoming more competitive. The budget cap has allowed even the lowest-ranked teams to pose a threat in qualifying sessions, with increased competition throughout the field. This was demonstrated in the 2021 season, where the entire grid was covered within a narrow time range during qualifying sessions. Additionally, the current technical rules limiting progress with ground-effect cars have also contributed to the closer grid.
