There is nothing permanent except change. FIA has made changes to the regulations to make the racing closer, with an attempt to make the F1 viewership experience enjoyable and attract more significant audiences. One of these recent changes caused dismay among the drivers, inducing disapproval for the same. Max Verstappen, Sergio Perez, and other drivers are unconvinced that it will improve the racing and that it’s only for showmanship.

Over the past decade or so, F1 has introduced many changes to bring the grid closer and make it interesting for the viewers. FIA has yet again proposed new qualifying regulations which will be tested during two GPs this year, the first of which is Saudi Arabia. According to the regulations, 2 sets of Hards for Q1, 2 sets of Mediums for Q2, and 2 sets of Softs for Q3 will be utilized. Both Red Bull drivers have expressed their concerns, mentioning there isn’t any need for all of this and that it’s just for the show. 

As per si.com, Verstappen said “I don’t think we need to actually do these kinds of things in qualifying. I don’t really see the benefit of it. It’s better if we make sure that all the cars are close to each other and more competitive, instead of spicing things up in that way, which I think is yeah, probably for the show.”,

Checo added to Verstappen’s pointers and said, “Yeah, I just think it’s for the show, I think we don’t need that. When you see the qualifying we had [in Bahrain], how close everything was, you don’t really need to change anything.”

Also Read: Max Verstappen & Co. To Face Experimental Qualifying Shake Up in Upcoming 2023 F1 Season

The F1 grid has really bunched up this year as witnessed during the 2023 Bahrain GP Q1, where 9-tenths covered the Top 17 cars. The Qualifying changes aren’t required to bring the grid closer, but we should be open to the idea. Take the example of the Sprint Race, which brought another dynamic to the race weekend.

What are the other tire changes introduced for 2023?

Apart from the experimental tire rules for qualifying, Pirelli has also introduced a new tire compound named the C0. It’s supposed to be a harder, more durable alternative to the previously existing C1. The tire manufacturer will also be providing an improved wet compound that will not require the use of tire blankets. Many teams have conducted a wet weather test session with Pirelli over the winter. The new tire is expected to arrive in time for the Emilia-Romagna GP.  

Also, the vote for banning tire blankets altogether for 2024 will be held this year, with the green light given if a minimum of 5 teams vote in favor. Drivers who qualify for the Q3 are no longer required to start the race on the tires they used in Q2 to set the fastest lap. 

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What do you think? Are the drivers righteous in saying that we don’t need new qualifying rules?