Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion, is in talks with the FIA to address the issue of 'yo-yo racing' in Formula 1. This phenomenon, where drivers use large portions of their electrical power to overtake, only to run out of battery and be overtaken again on the next straight, has been a point of contention among the drivers. Verstappen, along with other top drivers like Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris, has expressed concerns about the artificiality of the racing and the need for improvements.
Verstappen has shared several ideas with the FIA, focusing on both the deployment and harvesting sides of the electrical power. He suggests reducing the share of electrical power, at least in race trim, to move away from the need for constant lifting and super clipping. However, he acknowledges that this would come at a cost, including slower lap times and a move away from the near 50-50 split.
The issue of yo-yo racing has been exacerbated by the layout of certain tracks, such as Melbourne, which features fast sections that follow each other quickly and the difficulty of recharging the battery due to the lack of heavy braking zones. Verstappen believes that as the tracks get harder braking and not so much high speed, the issue will be easier on the energy and less prevalent.
Despite the challenges, Verstappen remains optimistic about the potential for improvement. He hopes that the FIA will take action to address the issue, and he is willing to work with the governing body to find solutions that benefit the sport as a whole. In the end, it's not about what he wants, but what's better for the sport.
The question remains, however, whether such proposals stand any chance of success, given that they could disadvantage teams that are particularly strong in energy management, such as Mercedes and Ferrari. Verstappen acknowledges this, but remains committed to finding solutions that improve the racing and make the sport more exciting for fans.
