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Kubica irritated by constant criticism of Formula 1

Alfa Romeo reserve driver Robert Kubica says the constant criticism of F1's predictability is unwarranted, insisting the sport should do a better job explaining its "subtleties" to fans.

With seven wins in nine races, Mercedes is well on its way to conquering its seventh world Constructors' title, while star driver Lewis Hamilton is inching closer to equaling Michael Schumacher's record of seven world championships.

But Mercedes and Hamilton's success over the years has instilled a sense of predictability among the sport's members and its fan community, with calls for change compelling F1 to overhaul its regulations in a bid to level the playing field, a change that will come into force in 2022.

While the recent Italian Grand Prix at Monza sprung a massive surprise, with Pierre Gasly reaping the benefits of Mercedes' misfortune, the German outfit and Hamilton were back in the winner's circle a week later at Mugello.

©Mercedes

But Kubica is tired of the criticism - including from drivers - of Mercedes' dominance.

"What is this criticism of Formula 1 about?" he said, quoted by Speedweek.

"In the premier class there were always phases of dominance. But when druvers say something like that, they only see the situation from their perspective.

"We experience terrific all-around battles with fascinating racing strategies in the midfield.

"Of course, things can be a bit monotonous at the top. It is normal for more drivers to get involved and for the fans to want to experience even better races. But you have to understand how this sport works."

Kubica believes that the sport's representatives should highlight the more interesting or fascinating aspects of F1.

"If we had smaller gaps between the teams, the World Championship races would automatically be more interesting," explained the winner of the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix.

"But it's not just about the number of overtaking maneuvers. If we have too many of them, then it becomes arbitrary and it's no longer interesting.

"We have races where strategy creates tension. You just have to be able to explain that to the audience.

"To share the fascination, fans need to understand the subtleties. And it is up to all of us to promote this understanding of the audience."

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Michael Delaney

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