Penske Racing's Will Power labeled Formula 1 "a joke" in terms of the competition it offers compared to IndyCar and believes Grand Prix racing should follow the US series' single-chassis approach to its regulations.
IndyCar's longstanding reliance on the same Dallara chassis across all teams – and on just two engine suppliers, Honda and Chevrolet – has undoubtedly produced a more level playing field, which has allowed for greater competition and a wider range of race winners.
This season, IndyCar has celebrated five different winners in the seven races that have been held so far, which clearly demonstrates the unpredictability of the series.
"It’s so tough, an amazing field, the toughest field in the world, and people need to know it, especially compared to Formula 1," argued Power who finished runner-up to Alex Palou in last Sunday's round of IndyCar racing in Detroit.
©Instagram/WillPower
In contrast, Formula 1's emphasis on teams developing their own cars has led to dominant campaigns by a single outfit and to fewer race winners, reducing variability in race outcomes.
Mercedes secured a record eight consecutive titles after the advent of the hybrid era in F1, while Red Bull's dominant RB19 remains unbeaten by its rivals this season.
"Formula 1 is a joke as far as competition, but not as far as the drivers," added the 2018 IndyCar champion.
"They have amazing drivers. And I feel sorry for them that they don’t get to experience the satisfaction we do with our racing because that is the top level of open-wheel motorsport."
Formula 1's focus on individual car development fosters a high level of technological innovation, pushing the boundaries of engineering and aerodynamics.
This aspect attracts fans who appreciate cutting-edge technology and engineering advancements.
Yet Power suggests that F1 should follow IndyCar's standardized chassis approach.
"I think Formula 1 would be so much better if they had a formula like IndyCar," the Aussie said.
"I love the technology and the manufacturer side of it. I think that’s awesome, but from a spectator watching, man, how cool would it be if everyone had a Red Bull?
"You simply know Max is going to win every race if something doesn’t go wrong."
©IndyCar
Whether Formula 1 should adopt a single-chassis approach would require careful consideration of the impact on the series' brand, competitiveness, and technological advancements, among other factors.
Power admits that such a move would likely be seen by F1 as a step too far and as an alteration of the sport's DNA.
"Imagine being a guy coming out as a rookie, and you probably could win a race," he said. "It would be really cool to see.
"But you know that would never happen with the politics over there."
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