Formula One managing director of motorsports Ross Brawn has sent out a warning that the sport is in need of change. Brawn highlighted the difference in performance between the top and midfield teams as an issue that needs addressing in the immediate future.
The former team principal branded the fact that there have been just two occasions in the past two seasons in which a driver outside of the top three teams has finished on the podium.
Lance Stroll's third-place in 2017 and Sergio Perez's third-place finish in 2018, both in Baku, the only instances of success beyond the top tier teams in the sport.
“As was the case in 2017, only once and significantly, on a very unusual street circuit like Baku, did a driver from one of those seven teams make it to the podium.
“Two podiums from a total of 123 (two seasons) is unacceptable, especially when it comes with an ever-increasing technical and financial divide.
“It’s a problem we are tackling together with the FIA and the teams, because the future of Formula 1 depends on it.
“There are various solutions on the table and we must all accept that we can’t go on like this for too much longer.”
Brawn did admit that despite the close battles going on in F1's midfield, fans mainly tuned in to watch the fight for the win and the world championship.
“Their battle was certainly thrilling, however, it’s hard for the fans to truly get excited about a battle for eighth place.
“Having said that, congratulations to Renault for finishing fourth, confirming the progress it is making and to Haas, as finishing fifth in only your third year in the sport is a great achievement.”