Hamilton saddened by a Formula 1 that is no longer winning

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Lewis Hamilton blasted modern day Formula 1, with its 'terrible' sounding cars and sport which he considers ' is not winning ' anymore.

In an interview with BBC Radio 5, the three-time world champion typically spoke his mind and lamented the fact that the thrill factor that drew him into the sport had all but vanished.

"I’ve said time and time again that I think it’s terrible,” said Hamilton, referring to the noise of the V6 hybrid turbo powered cars.

"But most people are like ‘oh, it’s not that bad’. But my opinion is that I think it is.

“When I first went to a Grand Prix at Spa in 1996, got into the paddock and Michael [Schumacher] came past in the V10 Ferrari, it literally rumbled my ribcage.

"I was hooked even more than I was when I’d watched it on TV. It was like a fighter jet - I was like ‘what the hell?’

"It’s not the only thing the fans love, but it’s an addition to smell, to the roar of awesomeness that Formula 1 is. Take that away and, jeez, it’s just sad to see the cars come by now, sound-wise."

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The Mercedes driver was optimistic about the future however and will keep a watchful eye over the changes new owner Liberty Media could bring along with its expertise.

"I don’t feel Formula 1 is winning – it’s not been for a long time. That’s to do with rule changes, it’s to do with not helping or not engaging the fans enough.

"There is still a great following in Formula 1, and I’m excited for the new owners that have come in. I’m hoping they do something new.

"New blood. New ideas. New ways of engaging the fans in a unique way. F1 is a bit outdated, if you look at other sports they’re further ahead in the entertainment factor.

"Formula 1 is catching up, and they have a lot of catching up to do."

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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.