Nigel Mansell directly criticizes the new technical rules of F1. The 1992 champion denounces overtakes that have become “artificial” and a loss of control for the drivers.
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The new technical regulations continue to spark debate after only three races, and Nigel Mansell did not mince his words to express his disagreement. The former world champion believes that the spectacle offered on track no longer truly reflects the pure talent of the drivers.
According to him, the balance between the internal combustion engine and electric energy, combined with the automated power management, completely distorts the duels on track and creates artificial situations.
“I might get criticized for saying this, but unfortunately some overtakes are totally fake. They look impressive, then at the exit of the corner, a car simply passes you again because the system gives it more power at the wrong moment” says Mansell, pointing to a loss of control by the drivers.
An increasingly technology-dependent F1
With the new rules, drivers can no longer attack constantly, especially in qualifying, where they have to manage their energy to optimize the straights. This constraint imposes a much more calculated approach, partly dictated by complex algorithms.
Mansell regrets this evolution, believing that decisions are no longer entirely in the hands of the drivers, which alters the very essence of the discipline.
“The driver doesn’t really control this, because he wouldn’t have used that power at that moment. Everything is dictated by the system, and that takes away part of the purity of driving” he states, denouncing an excessive dependence on technology.
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The former British driver illustrates his point with concrete situations observed during races, where an overtake can be immediately canceled by a power differential linked to energy management.
He notably mentions some recent duels where the drivers themselves admit they do not fully control the overtakes they make.
“I think it was Lando Norris who said he didn’t want to overtake at that spot, but he had no choice. Then at the exit of the corner, the car behind immediately passes him again on the straight” explains Mansell, highlighting a scenario he finds inconsistent.
Fans at the heart of concerns
Beyond his own feelings, Nigel Mansell insists on the perception of the fans, whom he believes are increasingly frustrated by this type of spectacle. For him, the risk is disconnecting the public from a discipline historically based on human performance.
He thus calls for increased vigilance from the governing bodies to preserve the DNA of Formula 1.
“We have to be very careful, because no matter my opinion, many fans around the world are frustrated. And to be honest, I agree with them” he concludes, sending a clear message to the decision-makers.
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