F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Coulthard tells grumbling drivers to 'step aside'

Former F1 driver David Coulthard says those who feel that F1's new-generation cars are too uncomfortable to drive and pose a long-term risk to their physical health should "step aside".

Formula 1's new technical regulations that were introduced this year and which are expected to remain in force until 2026 rely on ground effects to produce downforce.

But the approach has spawned a series of designs that suffer from porpoising or bouncing, an aerodynamic effect due in part to the cars' very low ride-height and stiff suspension, a set-up that has produced a very bumpy and brutal ride on certain tracks.

In Baku, George Russell stated that it was "just a matter of time" before someone loses control and is the victim of a major incident, while his Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton struggled to extricate himself from his cockpit at the end of the race in Azerbaijan due to an acute back pain caused by his car's bouncing.

Ahead of last weekend's Canadian Grand Prix, the FIA published a technical directive that it hopes will eventually eradicate F1's bouncing problem.

But Coulthard has taken aim at those who have chosen to complain rather than get on with their job, despite how uncomfortable it may be.

"I’ve been in a situation where I’ve had the advantage of my team doing a better job, and I’ve been on the other side when the team didn’t do such a good job and you take the pain whether it’s through your lower back," said the W Series ambassador during a media event for the all-female series.

"But what I would say to you, if any driver feels uncomfortable, if any driver feels he’s doing himself long-term damage, step aside.

"There’s a whole bunch of guys and girls that would very happily step into your car if you feel uncomfortable."

Coulthard added that in every sport, there are moments when one needs to take the pain, and Formula 1 is no exception.

"I think we have to keep in perspective that sport doesn’t come with princesses and the pea mattresses," continued the Channel 4 commentator.

"If you’re a boxer you have to accept someone’s gonna punch you in the face. If you’re a footballer, someone’s going to drag their studs down the back of your legs.”

"I think we have to keep in perspective a little bit that this is where certain teams are, and there’ll be evolution, but for the most part just get on with it."

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

Recent Posts

Horner: Max 'answered critics' with epic Sao Paulo GP drive

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner hailed Max Verstappen’s sensational Sao Paulo Grand Prix victory…

8 mins ago

Sainz left puzzled by double crash drama in rainy São Paulo

Carlos Sainz was left scratching his head after a disastrous Sunday at the Sao Paulo…

1 hour ago

Alonso pushed through agonizing pain to complete Sao Paulo GP

Fernando Alonso braved both physical agony and mechanical challenges in the Sao Paulo Grand Prix,…

3 hours ago

Alpine double-podium in Brazil could deliver $30 million windfall

Alpine’s remarkable double podium at the São Paulo Grand Prix with Esteban Ocon and Pierre…

17 hours ago

F1i's Driver Ratings for the 2024 São Paulo GP

Alexander Albon, Williams (Did Not Start): 5.5/10 Alex Albon is definitely going through something of…

19 hours ago

Jos Verstappen rips British media after Brazilian Max fest

Jos Verstappen wasted no time after his son spectacular win at the São Paulo Grand…

20 hours ago