'Formula 1 is over-regulated,' says Lauda

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As he witnessed from inside Mercedes' garage the chaotic start of last Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix, Niki Lauda concluded once again that Grand Prix racing is just too restrained by its own regulations.

Opinions diverged along the pitlane Sunday afternoon with many believing that race director Charlie Whiting should have proceeded with a standing start, while later on drivers were mixed as to whether the race should have been stopped or not.

The great Austrian champion, who ironically lost the 1976 world title in Japan for refusing to race in the rain, deemed the whole affair of delaying the race and then stopping it "not worthy of Formula 1."

"These were perfect conditions for a rain race," he insisted. "This is an example that everything is over-regulated."

"Okay, all the top drivers had their moments, perhaps with the exception of Hamilton. But this is normal in a rain race."

Lauda suggested the afternoon's unfolding of events warranted a discussion with the relevant parties.

"I think mistakes were made today so we need to get together with Charlie Whiting to do better in the future. Race drivers have to race, even in the most difficult conditions."

The Mercedes non-executive chairman also pointed to Max Verstappen in anybody wanted a few pointers on how to drive a Formula 1 car in difficult conditions.

"Some drivers should look carefully at Max and what lines this boy drives."

2016 Brazilian Grand Prix - Driver ratings

FULL REPORT: Hamilton wins delayed Brazilian GP to take title to wire

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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.