Refuelling ban won’t make Formula 1 dull, says track legend Schumacher
SEVEN-TIME world champion Michael Schumacher has hit back at claims that the ban on refuelling has made Formula 1 boring.
The season-opening race in Bahrain a fortnight ago was criticised for a lack of overtaking, with the new rule changes shouldering much of the blame.
But Mercedes driver Schumacher, who has returned to the track this season after a three-year absence, insists the two are not linked and expects more drama at this weekend’s Australian Grand Prix.
“It is not motorcycle racing, it has always had less overtaking – the excitement is still there for fans,” he said. “The matter of fact is there was no overtaking, but tell me when there has been more overtaking? Formula 1 has always had this situation.
“There are very clever people always thinking how to improve, make things better… it’s not so easy.”
Schumacher, meanwhile, has also urged his doubters to judge him on results after an unconvincing first drive in Bahrain.
The German was beaten by team-mate Nico Rosberg in the race and every session in Bahrain – only the second time that has happened to him in his 249 Formula 1 starts.
“It is fair to be judged on results but I don’t feel I need to give a guideline or reference to achieve them,” he added.
“I am here for the enjoyment but not to be last – I want to win. The enjoyment is more when you are successful. I am addicted to challenge.”