Alonso takes swipe at new F1 rules: 'The chef can drive the car at that speed'
Fernando Alonso echoed Max Verstappen’s concerns over the new regulations, albeit in a far less drastic manner.
“To do 10-12 instead of 260 at 200 (kph), you can drive the car. The chef can drive the car in 10-12 at that speed”- Fernando Alonso
Alonso’s dry humour shines in swipe at new Formula 1 regulations
The Spaniard offered a concrete example of just how crucial energy deployment will be this year, explaining that drivers are now far more inclined to save energy through the corners in order to have as much as possible available on the straights.
Speaking to GPblog among other media, Alonso said: “Here in Bahrain has been historically (turns) 10-12, a very challenging corner. So you used to choose your downforce level to go 10-12 just flat, so you remove downforce until you are in 10-12 just flat with new tyres.”
“It was a driver skill, decisive factor to go fast in a lap time. Now in 10-12 we are like 50 kph slower because we don't want to waste energy there and we want to have all on the straights, so to do 10-12 instead of 260 at 200 (kph), you can drive the car. The chef can drive the car in 10-12 at that speed, but you don't want to waste energy because you want to have it on the straight.”
He finally added: “I understand Max's comments, because from a driver, you would like to make the difference in the corner, driving those five kilometers faster. But now you are dictated by how much energy your engine will have on the next straight. At the same time, this is F1, and it has been always like that.”
Rookie offers contrasting view after Verstappen’s harsh verdict on new rules
Arvid Lindblad played down concerns over the new cars, brushing aside the strong criticism aired by Verstappen.
The Dutchman’s comments quickly became a talking point around the paddock, prompting many drivers to share their own views on the latest generation of machinery. Lindblad, who is preparing for his first full season in Formula 1, was among those asked — and speaking to GPblog and other media, he made it clear the debate has not unsettled him.
Popular on GPBlog
Did Mercedes fool everyone in Bahrain? Here’s what the numbers say
'Aprilia identify bargain replacement for Jorge Martin in 2027'
McLaren boss singles out three early frontrunners after Bahrain testing
