F1 drivers "think that the new generation of cars are too slow at the moment, even if they are still hugely challenging to drive," according to Jonathan Noble of AUTOSPORT. The first experience of the turbo V6 machines at Jerez last week showed that "although the new engines are still delivering plenty of horsepower, they are lacking in cornering speed." Sauber driver Adrian Sutil said, "We have lost downforce, around 20-30 percent from last year, and now also the tires are one step harder. It makes it more difficult all the time. ... From the engine side it is very powerful. ... But from the aerodynamics, I think we have to step up a little bit, because F1 should also be quick in the corners" (AUTOSPORT, 2/4).
DOUBLE POINTS: For CITY AM, Christian Sylt wrote F1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone said that "he introduced controversial rules to award double points for the last race of the season in order to help Ferrari compete." Ecclestone said of Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo, "He was talking about it and I said, 'It is very simple why we got that [rule]. It is because you aren't performing. If you were doing what you should be doing there wouldn't be any need for it.' He said, 'I know, I know'" (CITY AM, 2/4).
