Mansell Comments on F1’s Lack of Depth

1992 F1 world champion Nigel Mansell is of the opinion that modern Formula 1 lacks a depth of competition. He backed up his claim, saying that a number of talented young drivers are missing out on an F1 opportunity. This season, there are just 20 drivers on the roster despite its maximum number sitting at 26.

Since the number of teams have reduced, it hasn’t helped younger and talented drivers seal a slot on the F1 grid. To make matters even more difficult, present drivers have been prolonging their careers. As of 2018, just two rookies, Charles Leclerc and Sergey Sirotkin, will be competing in the pinnacle of motor racing.

Mansell said, “No disrespect to Formula 1 but the depth of competition is not there like it was in the 80s and 90s. We want to see 26 cars on the grid. There is an awful lot of worthy drivers who are backlogged and have nowhere to go. Through the years, there were drivers being injured out of the sport and being replaced. There was always a new influx of blood every year, always cars to get into. That has dried up. The FIA have done an incredible job with safety, the manufacturers have worked closely to make the cars safer. A driver almost has twice the career span which is good for them, but the drivers waiting to break in will never get the opportunity.”

The last time the F1 grid was fairly filled up was in 2010 till the 2012 F1 season, where there were 12 teams and 24 cars. It will be difficult for Formula One to reach those grid numbers in the future if manufacturers are unwilling to enter the sport. Will things change in the future? will the grid depth actually mirror what things were like in Mansell’s time? will the 2021 F1 rules play a role in enticing manufacturers?