Carlos Sainz Jnr has called for Formula 1 to ease its strict track testing limits, arguing that simulators cannot fully replace real-world experience.
🔧 Limited Track Time Frustrates Drivers
With only three days of pre-season testing allowed for teams, Sainz—who moved from Ferrari to Williams this season—believes his day-and-a-half in the FW47 was far from enough.
🗣️ “It feels weird that I got a day and a half, and now I need to go racing. It feels ridiculously little, the amount of time we get in our cars before a race.”
The restrictions are even harsher on rookies, as six drivers prepare for their first full F1 season in Melbourne this month 🇦🇺.
🗣️ “If it’s tough for me, imagine for a rookie! Experience comes only from real on-track running.”
🖥️ Simulators vs. Real Testing
While on-track testing is limited, teams can use their simulators endlessly. Many teams even run simulations during race weekends using live track data. However, Sainz—now a Grand Prix Drivers Association director—believes simulators are overrated compared to real testing.
🗣️ “Teams spend unlimited money on simulators, with drivers flying back and forth from Monaco to the UK just for testing. Why not invest that money into eight to ten days of real testing?”
🔄 Sainz’s Proposal: Balance Between Simulators & Track Testing
Sainz has a simple solution:
✅ Allow teams to choose between simulator hours or real-world testing
✅ Include both in the budget cap
*✅ Increase test days to at least eight or ten per season
🗣️ “I’m not asking for too much. Let teams decide: spend money on simulators or on real track days. Rookies would benefit, and teams would improve. Simulators are good, but they’re not as good as some engineers think.”
🚀 Will F1 Listen?
With drivers and teams continuously debating the role of simulators vs. real testing, will Formula 1 consider Sainz’s proposal? Drop your thoughts below in the comments! ⬇️🔥
