Don’t mess with Formula One, says Panis

Speaking exclusively to Motorsport.com, Panis was responding to Red Bull chief Christian Horner's claim that the FIA should revisit the rulebook to level the playing field of the current V6 hybrid turbo engines.

“For me, that wouldn’t be F1 anymore,” said Panis. “I already find that F1 has evolved in a way that I don’t appreciate, maybe because I’m from the former generation.

“But if you say now that performances need to be restricted, then you might as well create a one-make series. But if you want to attract constructors, you will deter them by doing that.”

Panis insists that F1 should remain true to its competitive spirit, and that Mercedes should be applauded for gaining its current advantage.

“Formula 1 must remain Formula 1 – we’ve obviously seen supremely dominant Mercedes cars, you can’t blame nor criticize them, they have been doing a better job than everyone else, be it chassis-wise or engine-wise,” he said.

“Now, for sure, when you see how dominant Mercedes is, you would like to see something else, but once again that’s how it is – we expected it.

“Ferrari is back at the front of the grid. Despite a tough Grand Prix, Renault and Red Bull should be there soon. As far as the others are concerned, Sauber has performed very well, there still are some good surprises.

“Let’s keep positive while hoping for a much better Grand Prix next time.”