Mercedes ‘trying to change F1 rules’ as Red Bull send lawyer to podium

Mercedes are actively trying to change F1 regulations as the row which has engulfed the sport rages on.

The issue of porpoising and the high speed bouncing of cars have dominated the agenda following one of the biggest regulation changes in the sport’s history, with reigning constructors’ champions Mercedes suffering more than most from the issue. Governing body, the FIA, announced on the eve of the Canadian Grand Prix that they will start monitoring the issue more closely and may even order teams to adjust the set-up of their cars if they are deemed unsafe.

However, it is thought that does not go far enough for Mercedes, who want a regulation change, citing driver welfare as their chief concern. Their rivals, including Red Bull and Ferrari, suspect it is merely an attempt to level the competitive playing field following a poor start to the season for the Silver Arrows.

And Sky Sports F1’s pitlane reporter Ted Kravitz believes the debate could turn into a legal minefield, with lawyers representing both parties getting involved. Interestingly, Red Bull sent their general counsel, Ben Gordon-Smith, up to the podium with race winner Max Verstappen following Sunday’s Canadian Grand Prix.

“I bet he’s been busy in the last few years, and he might be busy again given some discussions around the cost cap and some discussions around the regulations in general, which Mercedes seem to be trying to change,” said Kravitz on his Ted’s Notebook show following the race in Montreal.

Are Mercedes right to seek a rule change? Have your say in the comments section below.

“Yes, you heard that. Mercedes seem to be trying to change the regulations, obviously because they’re not running very well under the regulations. But on a wider point, with driver safety, with the backs and everything. Something George Russell said today, ‘this global issue of this year’s cars hasn’t gone away’, which I thought was really interesting.”

“Are Mercedes trying to change the rules for the future direction of these cars? You could argue they wouldn’t be doing that if they were going as great guns as Max Verstappen and the Red Bull – and you’d be absolutely right, they wouldn’t be doing that.

“But I wonder if George has got a point and if, for the drivers’ safety, for their backs, they need to make a few tweaks to these cars. Driver safety shouldn’t be in direct conflict with the performance of the car.

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