Ecclestone believes F1 is too safe

Former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone believes that motorsport's pinnacle has become too safe after the introduction of the halo. The controversial cockpit protection device is mandatory this year as the FIA looks to boost driver safety further.

But Ecclestone doesn't agree with the introduction, saying that he spoke with the top drivers who aren't afraid of taking risks: "I spoke with them and I don't think the concept of risk is alien to them, as Sebastian has children," Ecclestone said.

"But they both said that they were always attracted to an element of risk in racing - that the driver is capable of more than an ordinary person," he added.

The halo has caused mass criticism as fans are outraged by the visual damage it does to the cars. In Melbourne, the device was seen in full view over a whole session, with the FOM providing some onboard shots of the cars equipped with the halo.

And Ecclestone thinks the sport has gone too far in terms of safety, believing there is too little risk involved: "When an acrobat walks along a tightrope, they are admired because they risk their lives. But if the rope is a metre from the ground, no one pays attention.

"Today's cars are too safe," he continued. "Safety is very good, don't get me wrong. But this Halo! Also, too many people are sure that Hamilton will win the title again. And if the public does not doubt his victory, then why would they buy a ticket?"

 

Fergal Walsh

Freguz

Posts: 160

For once I agree

  • 1
  • Mar 23 2018 - 10:58

Replies (2)

Login to reply
  • Freguz

    Posts: 160

    For once I agree

    • + 1
    • Mar 23 2018 - 10:58
  • I agree, but I call to question his motives for saying this. Everything that comes out of this old bastard's mouth is sour grapes.

    • + 0
    • Mar 24 2018 - 00:36

AZ Azerbaijan Grand Prix

Local time 

AZAzerbaijan Grand Prix

Local time 

Test calendar

See full test schedule

World Championship standings 2026

Show full world champion standings

Related news

Give your opinion!

Will Bottas challenge Hamilton for the world championship in 2020?

Formula 1 Calendar - 2026

Date
Grand Prix
Circuit
-
Spain
-
Bahrain
-
Bahrain
6 - Mar 8
Australia
13 - Mar 15
China
27 - Mar 29
Japan
10 - Apr 12
Bahrain
17 - Apr 19
Saudi Arabia
1 - May 3
United States of America
22 - May 24
Canada
5 - Jun 7
Monaco
12 - Jun 14
Spain
See full schedule

Formula 1 Calendar - 2026

Date
Grand Prix & Circuit
6 - Mar 8
Australia Albert Park
13 - Mar 15
27 - Mar 29
10 - Apr 12
17 - Apr 19
Saudi Arabia Jeddah Street Circuit
1 - May 3
United States of America Miami International Autodrome
22 - May 24
5 - Jun 7
Monaco Monte Carlo
12 - Jun 14
See full schedule

Driver profile

  • Team Ferrari
  • Points 3,566
  • Podiums 133
  • Grand Prix 234
  • Country GB
  • Date of b. Jan 7 1985 (41)
  • Place of b. Tewin, GB
  • Weight 68 kg
  • Length 1.74 m
Show full profile
show sidebar