Adrian Newey believes that Formula 1 cars need to be exceptionally fast in order to create a captivating visual experience for fans. The current cars have faced criticism for their large and bulky appearance, which does not translate well on television. This has been a persistent issue in Formula 1 since the mid-2010s. However, Adrian Newey, the Chief Technology Officer at Red Bull, has shared his insights on how these issues can be addressed. He emphasizes the need for F1 cars to be fast in order to capture the attention of both fans and media.
Newey, who has extensive experience in developing cars for Formula 1, acknowledges that there can be debates about the level of speed that should be achieved in terms of lap times and high-speed performance. However, he highlights the importance of considering the visual aspect, as television tends to make cars appear slower. Therefore, it is crucial for cars to possess impressive speed in order to convey a sense of excitement on TV.
The 65-year-old expert emphasizes that F1 should always prioritize being a visual spectacle. Making cars faster and lighter would contribute to enhancing this aspect. Newey’s comments should be taken seriously, as the essence of Formula 1 lies in the speed and visual spectacle of the cars.
The regulations in Formula 1 have been heavily scrutinized, particularly since the introduction of measures like the cost cap. The new regulations implemented in 2022 have been particularly disappointing, as cars have become larger, bulkier, and less dynamic. Red Bull’s Adrian Newey has spoken out about the challenges and limitations that teams face due to these regulations. He points out that the current regulations are the most restrictive ever, hindering teams from making improvements or exploring new concepts.
In reality, the existing regulations are arguably the most limiting ones in Formula 1 history. Each new set of regulations tends to be more restrictive than the previous ones, and the introduction of the cost cap further restricts spending disparities between the largest and smallest teams.
Newey also criticizes the limited impact of the cost cap, which has failed to make the sport more competitive. The hierarchy among teams remains largely unchanged. Formula 1 must address these issues before the new regulations are introduced in 2026.