Russell calls for F1 rule tweak amid increase in rookie outings

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Mercedes’ George Russell has proposed a change to F1's regulations regarding rookie driver practice sessions, suggesting that any damage caused by these drivers should not count towards a team’s strict cost cap.

From the 2025 season onwards, F1 teams will be required to allocate four FP1 sessions to young drivers, double the previous requirement of two.

While Russell sees the increased opportunity for young talent as a positive development, he believes that the financial implications of potential accidents should also be considered.

“Four FP1s, I think it's great to give the opportunity to the youngsters,” commented Russell last time out in Brazil, quoted by RacingNews365.

“But maybe if there is any crash damage it shouldn't be within cost cap.

“We're all right up close against the financial regulations and if a young driver were to damage the car, then that maybe should be separate.”

Read also: Wolff not happy to be dubbed Mercedes 'leader'

Russell’s remarks are particularly relevant given the crash suffered by Mercedes junior driver Kimi Antonelli in FP1 at the wheel of the Briton’s car at last September’s Italian Grand Prix.

The move to double the number of rookie FP1 sessions reflects Formula 1's commitment to fostering new talent. But incidents such as the one that befell Antonelli can significantly impact a team's budget, potentially disincentivizing competitors from fully embracing rookie participation.

In addition to the proposed change to the FP1 rules, F1 will also eliminate the extra point awarded for the fastest lap of the race from next season onwards.

Russell expressed his approval of this decision, arguing that the rule often led to unnecessary risks and tactical maneuvers.

“I always thought the point for fastest lap was a bit pointless,” the Mercedes driver admitted.

“It would always be the driver who was having a tough race in the top 10 would pit, put new tyres on and gain the extra point.

“So I never really saw the benefit of that. So I’m glad to see that it's gone.”

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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.