F1 CEO offers robust regulations defence: ‘What is artifical?’

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has launched a strong defence of the technical regulations despite widespread criticism.

The first three races of the season raised multiple questions about the new power units which feature a 50-50 split in power output between the internal combustion engine and the beefed-up electrical systems, up to 350kw. 

However, in both Australia and Japan, drivers were unable to complete qualifying laps without lift and coasting, or 'super-clipping' which is when the driver stays on full throttle, but the car starts to de-accelerate and charge the battery.

This, coupled with the 'Mario Kart' style racing some drivers have described, led to talks being planned across the April break to rectify issues, with F1, the FIA, and the teams all taking part in the discussions.

Offering his own opinion, Domenicali believes that there is nothing "artificial" about the style of racing seen so far.

"Overtaking some people are saying is artificial, what is artificial?" Domenicali said to Autosport.

"I mean, overtaking is overtaking, and people have a short memory, because in the turbo age in the 1980s, I was already following F1 and the lift and coast and using different turbos and different speeds. 

"You have to [manage] because otherwise the fuel tank was too small.

"Maybe some of the old people are criticising or have some comments have a short memory, because back in the 80s, at the turbo time, these things were there."

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