Nov.17 (GMM) Charlie Whiting has played down moves to dramatically simplify the F1 rulebook.
F1’s decision-making Strategy Group, featuring Bernie Ecclestone and the teams, met in Geneva this week and vowed to push the FIA to slash the rules that penalise drivers for their racing style.
But F1 race director Charlie Whiting said he doubts a simple rule book, like that seen in the 70s and 80s, can be achieved.
“Unfortunately I think the whole sport has become more complex,” he said.
“All the rules on driving could be summed up with: drivers must drive safely. But when you have a simple rule like that, you are continually asked exactly what does that mean? Can we do this? Can we do that?” added Whiting.
“So I personally don’t see any likelihood of the rules becoming simpler, because we do have a complex sport, that’s really how it is and that’s how it’s developed over the last 20 or so years.”
However, Germany’s Auto Bild claims that Whiting is proposing to improve the way penalties are applied by appointing a permanent steward.
“Whiting is pushing the team bosses to sign a joint letter to FIA president Jean Todt,” the report said.
And Whiting also defended his decision to red-flag the race in Brazil last weekend for the second time, to the displeasure of many.
“The rain was constantly changing in intensity,” he told Germany’s Auto Motor und Sport.
“The drivers at the front wanted to race, of course, because they had the best visibility. But most of the drivers said the conditions were just as bad.”
Whiting also revealed two F1 names who he said gave the best and most impartial advice during the Interlagos race about the track conditions: Daniel Ricciardo and Daniil Kvyat.
“They gave us the most valuable and neutral advice,” he confirmed.