Formula 1 is experiencing a moment of internal pressure for more changes to the current regulations. Lewis Hamilton and George Russell joined Max Verstappen in demanding greater driver involvement in FIA decisions.
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The topic gained momentum during this Miami GP weekend, amid recent adjustments to the 2026 regulations. The drivers argue that the experience inside the car should be more considered, avoiding problems that could be anticipated.
Hamilton was direct in pointing out the absence of drivers in the decision-making process: “We don’t have a seat at the table with the FIA in Formula 1, and that needs to change,” he said. The Briton emphasized that collaboration could improve the development of the rules. “They should talk to us and work together. We can help build a better product,” he added.
The seven-time world champion also stated that there is a collective interest in strengthening the category but criticized the pace of changes. According to him, progress is still slow, despite the goodwill shown by the parties involved.
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Russell, in turn, took a more moderate tone but acknowledged the need for evolution in dialogue: “There have been very good conversations with the FIA, and they have been listening to concerns,” he said, indicating that there is a movement to include drivers more in future discussions, which could prevent problems before they even arise.
The Mercedes driver also highlighted that some recent changes focus on safety, especially to reduce the large speed differences between cars recorded during energy recovery. Still, the real impact of these changes will only be known in the upcoming stages of the season.
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