Max Verstappen Demands Three FIA Rule Changes After Forcing 10 in Career So Far
Max Verstappen would like to see the FIA make three further changes, despite having already forced 10 rule tweaks during his career to date.
The Red Bull star has established himself as one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history, with four consecutive world titles.
Although his chances of adding to that run look to have slipped away, Verstappen has been the strongest driver since the summer break.
The 28-year-old has also influenced the rulebook, with the sport's governing body making several changes and clarifications since he entered Formula 1 in 2015.
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Among them are changes to the minimum age for granting a super license; clarification of rules around track limits and moving under braking; and a ban on celebrating with burnouts at the chequered flag.
Ahead of this weekend's Las Vegas Grand Prix, Verstappen has now revealed he would like to see Formula 1 make more significant changes.
He wants a reduction in the 24-race calendar, as well as cuts to the number of street circuits and sprint races.
He said: "Definitely a lot less races, only the good tracks, not too many street circuits.
"A two-day race weekend, an even more straight-forward calendar with less flying.
"So yeah I've got a few changes, no sprints, just the main race because there's more emotion in it.
"One practice, a qualifying and a race."
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has previously suggested that F1 could look to reduce the length of a Grand Prix, while increasing the number of sprint races.
He has also said that promoters and fans are 'tired of free practice', leading some to speculate whether the number of sessions will be cut in the future.
In his interview with 1Password, Verstappen was questioned about the idea of moving to just one practice session.
The Dutchman replied: "Yeah, why not."
The interviewer then questioned whether that was because he no longer wanted to drive a Formula 1 car as much.
"I've driven it already a lot," Verstappen joked.
"So that's enough in a weekend."
Those are not the only rule tweaks that Verstappen would like to see.
If he does not win the world title, which looks increasingly likely, he will be unable to keep the number one on his car.
Since 2014, drivers have chosen a permanent number for their entire F1 career, with the only exception being the right to switch to number one as world champion.
Normally that would mean Verstappen returning to his number 33, but when asked by the media, he revealed he would prefer a different number.
He said: "That’s a very good question! I will look at it over the winter, but my favourite number is #3. We just need to see whether that is actually possible.”
However, number three belonged to Daniel Ricciardo, who has not yet been out of the sport for two full seasons.
It remains to be seen whether the FIA will change the rule in time for Verstappen to use it.
Topics: Max Verstappen, Formula 1, FIA, Red Bull Racing
James Taylor