Lewis Hamilton criticises modern F1 tracks as “too safe” and warns against Sprint Race choices. Lewis Hamilton criticises modern Formula 1 circuits.

Lewis Hamilton calls for a return to more “authentic” tracks like Suzuka or Silverstone and criticises the choice of circuits such as Singapore for Sprint Races.

Lewis Hamilton has sent a clear message about the current state of Formula 1: according to the seven-time World Champion, modern circuits no longer make drivers pay a real “price” when they make a mistake. In recent years, many tracks on the calendar have replaced traditional grass or gravel run-off areas with wide asphalt zones, making it easier to regain control of the car even after going off-line. A trend that, in Lewis Hamilton’s view, has taken away part of the challenge and character that once defined Formula 1.

Lewis Hamilton’s words
“You can never go too far when it comes to safety, but the tracks today are very different from how they were in the ’90s or early 2000s,” explained the Ferrari driver to the media. “Back then, the run-off areas were grass, and if you pushed too far there was a price to pay — you could end up in the gravel or damage the car. Today you can go wide and come back on track, and I don’t particularly like that, but it’s the reality.”

Lewis Hamilton then highlighted how much he loves “historic” circuits like Zandvoort, Silverstone, and Suzuka, which he said “have real character”: “I always describe them as old houses — they have a soul. The new circuits, on the other hand, often lack character,” he added.

Although he appreciates modern tracks like Austin — “a fantastic circuit to drive on a single lap, but also a great track for racing” — Lewis Hamilton believes not all new venues offer good opportunities for battles.
The British driver also discussed the Sprint Race format, defending the concept but suggesting a more careful selection of tracks for it: “Some Sprints are just processions. Next year we’ll have Singapore: 19 laps there and we won’t see any overtakes. But on other circuits it can work well. I think Formula 1 is heading in the right direction — it’s great to see how much it’s growing all over the world, and I’m happy it’s attracting new fans. When I started, it was always the same crowd, and the old management wasn’t so forward-thinking.” – the seven-time Formula 1 world champion concluded.

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