Mar.20 (GMM) World champion Lewis Hamilton on Friday made clear he does not back the FIA’s latest rule changes
The regulations, including the voluntary budget cap for 2010 and the immediate change to the scoring system, have been widely condemned by multiple teams and drivers
In a statement provided by his team McLaren, the 24-year-old Briton said: “I think it’s a shame what’s happening to F1
“It’s hard to believe these recent decisions will improve things for the trackside spectators and TV viewers, who should always be our number-one priority, but I guess we’ll have to wait and see,” Hamilton added
The motive behind the scoring system change, with the driver with the most victories to be crowned 2009 champion, is to increase drivers’ motivation to win rather than encourage settling for strong points placings
If retrospectively applied, Hamilton would have lost the 2008 title to Felipe Massa, and Bernie Ecclestone – the champion of the original ‘medals’ concept – has named the Briton for employing go-steady tactics on occasion under the former regime
But Hamilton insists: “Whatever the points system, I know all F1 drivers will always race our hearts out
“For the first time in recent years we have the teams, drivers, sponsors and fans all working together for the good of our sport — now we just need the governing bodies to listen to us and help us.”n
