Ross Brawn reacts to Sebastian Vettel's 'bullsh*t' label of new qualifying format

Formula 1

Brawn reacts to Vettel's 'bullsh*t' label of new qualifying format

It will be purely experimental.

Martin Macdonald

Tuesday 24 September 2019 13:30

Ross Brawn insists that Formula 1 decision-makers are not looking to make changes to the format of qualifying and races for the sake of it, as he responds in part to Sebastian Vettel calling the proposed alterations “complete bullshit”.

F1 is set to be totally revamped in 2021 with the introduction of budget caps and engine standardisation, but there could be changes next year too as the FIA have been toying with the idea of changing qualifying.

The grid would be set by reversing the order of the drivers' championship, with the result then setting the grid for the grand prix.

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Vettel was one of a number of drivers who criticised the idea, but Brawn says it would be experimental anyway.

“In recent days I’ve read a variety of statements from drivers and pundits concerning ideas to make the race weekend format more spectacular,” said the F1 motorsport boss.

“To try to clarify the situation and avoid misunderstandings, there are discussions about experimenting in 2020 with changes to the qualifying format with the aim of making a Grand Prix weekend a little less predictable.

“I want to emphasise the word ‘experiment’ because this is what it is about – a small sample to establish the directions for the future. We are all too aware that the current qualifying format is exciting and spectacular but what is also important is to make sure that the race, the highlight of the weekend, is the best it can be.”

Brawn stresses that no decision has been made, but has asked that fans be open to the idea of experimenting as it will help the sport evolve.

“No matter how many simulations you run, there’s no measure more accurate than the track. Formula 1, the teams and the FIA are studying the possibility of a revised format for a small number of events for next season. With stable sporting and technical regulations in place for 2020 it is the perfect time for such evaluations,” he explained.

“No decision has been taken yet because we are finalising all the details, but feedbacks received so far are, in the majority, positive. I understand that the purists might be concerned, but we should not be afraid to conduct an experiment otherwise we cannot progress.

“We don't want change for the sake of change; we want to improve our sport, because, rather like the development of the cars, if you stand still you risk slipping backwards.”