Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls driver, has shared his experience after the Japanese Grand Prix, stating that he was “mentally exhausted” upon finishing the competition. After achieving a challenging ninth place at Suzuka, Lawson discussed the impact the new regulations have had on drivers’ concentration and stress.
In a post-race interview with _F1 TV_, Lawson noted that “this year is very intense.” He explained that drivers have to face numerous mental factors during driving, making races particularly demanding. “There are many more things to think about while driving,” he added.
The new regulations in Formula 1 have introduced significant changes, including a power practice that combines internal combustion and electric engines, with an almost equal distribution. Additionally, elements such as active aerodynamics and a push-to-pass button, as well as smaller and lighter vehicles, have been implemented.
Lawson went on to explain his adaptation to these changes: “You are learning a lot during the race. At first, Gabi [Gabriel Bortoleto] passed me without me noticing and I thought: ‘Brilliant, I’ve lost a place.'” However, he was able to recover upon seeing that Bortoleto previously did not have battery, making it easier for him to overtake again effortlessly.
The New Zealand driver observed that energy and battery management was a common topic among drivers during the race, reflecting the difficulties everyone was experiencing. Finally, Lawson managed to keep Esteban Ocon behind him thanks to a proper strategy of pace and resource usage.
Formula 1 will take a five-week break before the next Miami GP, after the cancellations of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix scheduled for April.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
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