Renault laments engine limit as a 'headache'

Renault boss Cyril Abiteboul has described the new three-engine limit per season regulation introduced by the FIA and Liberty Media as a 'headache' but remains hopeful that a compromise can be reached between the parties as the current rules are not the 'right thing' for F1.

Liberty Media have been in charge of Formula One for around a year now and have started to implement changes which they feel will benefit the sport, including the polarising decision to get rid of 'grid girls'.

On the track, however, the biggest regulation introduced has been the limiting of engines to three per season. Many figures in the sport have criticised the decision, with Red Bull's Christian Horner calling it 'absolutely barking' mad, and Abiteboul admits it has been challenge in preparing the cars.

"It's a headache but it's a known headache," Abiteboul told Sky Sports News.

"We knew that it was coming so we have built our plans and strategy accordingly. Right now there is nothing to indicate that we can't stick to this plan.

"Having said that, I still don't believe it's the right thing for Formula 1 and will still have another go [to change it] in the upcoming discussions with FIA and FOM and other teams because I don't think it really makes sense for anyone.”

Abiteboul also provided his opinion on the introduction of the halo device, and although he does not like the look of it, he admits it is a necessary safety addition to the car.

"We find it heavy and not very nice aesthetically but we have talked about that," The Renault chief continued.

The decision is made, it's necessary from a safety perspective and things need to evolve. I guess there will be more attempts to do that in a more refined manner but for the time being we are trying to integrate it in the best way possible."