Max Verstappen has humorously remarked that he may need a rulebook in the car with him due to the increasing level of regulations in F1.
The current world champion found himself in a controversial collision with F1 rival Lando Norris at the recent United States Grand Prix, bringing attention to the sport’s racing rules.
Norris was penalized with a five-second penalty for overtaking Verstappen off track after both drivers went wide at Turn 12 while competing for third place at COTA, causing Norris to lose a podium finish.
Verstappen of Red Bull, who escaped punishment for his actions at Turn 1 earlier in the race, believes that F1’s racing regulations are becoming overly complex.
“I think we are reaching a point where I almost require the rulebook in the car,” expressed the Dutch driver ahead of the Mexico City Grand Prix.
“The rules have significantly expanded over the years,” he added.
When asked if he considers the racing guidelines while racing, Verstappen commented: “Yes, of course. With the current state of the racing guidelines, they are trying to specify numerous things.”
“It is undoubtedly over-regulated, but I can also understand the other perspective. If rules are removed and an incident occurs, there will be a call for additional rules and stricter enforcement.”
“It’s a recurring cycle, as in the past with fewer regulations, similar arguments were made demanding more stringent rules. It’s a constant narrative,” Verstappen elaborated.
Verstappen enters the weekend with a 57-point lead over Norris in the championship standings, with five grands prix and two sprint events remaining this season.
