APEX RACEWIRE Newsroom
Lewis Hamilton: Formula 1 Too Reliant on Software, Lacks Raw Speed
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has expressed concern over the growing role of complex software in Formula 1, which he believes comes at the expense of drivers' true speed.
By Lesley Bakker - 2026-07-11T16:57:56.000Z - 1 min read
Lewis Hamilton, one of the most successful drivers in Formula 1 history, has recently launched a scathing critique of the increasingly dominant role software plays in the sport. The British driver argues that this trend undermines the essence of racing, leaving pure talent and speed with far less influence.
His frustration is particularly directed at the intricate systems governing the cars' energy management. These complex software protocols dictate exactly how drivers must manage hybrid power units and energy consumption, which Hamilton feels unfairly penalises the driver.
Rather than being rewarded for raw pace and instinctive on-track decision-making, drivers now find themselves constrained by how these systems operate. Hamilton believes the focus has shifted too heavily towards software optimization and away from the skill of the man or woman behind the wheel.
The seven-time world champion shared these candid views during a conversation with astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson on his StarTalk podcast. The frank interview took place over the Miami Grand Prix weekend.