For some time now, Formula 1 has been trying to improve its image. With campaigns like “We Race As One”, for example, the premier class would like to set an example for more diversity. Sebastian Vettel warns in an interview with the “Süddeutsche Zeitung”, however, that such actions should not only be lip service.
“On the outside, Formula 1 always wants to appear open in its communication. On the inside, I honestly lack this courage,” criticized Vettel and explains: “It’s already happening more than ten years ago, but so much more could happen In any case, there is still a lot of room for improvement when it comes to possible reforms. “
In this context, the four-time world champion reports that his personal commitment in the Formula 1 paddock is “viewed very critically”. “Our sport is fast and progressive in many ways, for example when it comes to technology and the innovations associated with it,” recalls Vettel.
“But we are not exactly pioneers when it comes to ideas,” criticizes the Aston Martin driver and gives possible reasons for this: “Because it’s so easy to hold onto old things: We’re doing so well, everything fits as it is! Change is often associated with fear that something good will disappear. “
Vettel: Formula 1 has to change
“That the people in Formula 1 also see an opportunity for the future in the change, I don’t experience that very much,” reveals Vettel, who has been actively committed to environmental protection for some time, for example. He was also noticed at the Grand Prix in Hungary last year with a rainbow T-shirt.
He would also like more action and not just words from Formula 1. “I believe that we, like everyone else – be it politics, industries, companies or private individuals – have a great responsibility towards society and have to live up to it. Formula 1 has to change there, there is no other way,” said Vettel .
Especially when it comes to environmental protection, he sees “a lot of starting points where we could make a difference.” It starts with the technology. “The current engine formula is from 2014, nothing new, it does not advance technical development. Especially not that of the production cars,” Vettel criticizes.
Vettel wants “signs” from Formula 1
“Or, as our racing calendar is drawn up, financial interests shouldn’t be the top priority here. Rather, the planning should make sense. This year Formula 1 flew from Mexico City to Sao Paulo and on to Qatar within three weeks – with a huge entourage, “he remembers.
“This travel planning was not smart. We shouldn’t fly from east to west or north to south, but rather check out stations that are already close together,” says the 34-year-old, who mentions another point: “Also plastic in the stands and in the stands Banning the paddock can go a long way. “
“Of course that wouldn’t save the world. But it’s about setting an example and showing that it is possible without it,” said Vettel. In addition to the four-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton is also one of the biggest critics in the paddock. The record champion has been campaigning for more diversity in motorsport for years.
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