Drivers advocate for transformation; TV commentators described as 'perfect.'

      "My ideal vision for the future is a lack of guidelines."

      The much-awaited GPDA-FIA meeting for Formula 1 was held in Qatar, where drivers reiterated their call for the elimination of the contentious "driving guidelines" in favor of a system with permanent, expert stewards. This follows a period of dissatisfaction regarding inconsistent penalties and unpopular interpretations, leading many drivers to openly question whether the current panel of stewards is equipped to handle real racing scenarios.

      GPDA director Carlos Sainz expressed his perspective when asked in Qatar whether F1 really needs the existing driving guidelines. "I’m speaking as Carlos Sainz, not in my GPDA role," he remarked. "Recently, after races, I've observed analyses by Karun Chandhok, Jolyon Palmer, and Anthony Davidson. Each time I view their breakdowns, they do an excellent job of correctly attributing blame most of the time or labeling it as a racing incident."

      Sainz emphasized that this level of comprehension is precisely what drivers seek from future stewarding. "My ideal vision is on the elimination of guidelines and having individuals who can evaluate these incidents with the same proficiency as those three," he stated. "I’m quite impressed with the quality of work some broadcasters provide — their thorough analysis, the terminology they use, and their experience. That represents a very high standard of 'stewardship,' if you will."

      While he didn’t directly criticize the current stewards, he underscored the necessity for consistent, expert opinions. "It doesn’t imply that the stewards aren’t doing a good job," the Williams driver clarified. "What I observe from these analysts after the race indicates a very high caliber. Without any guidelines, they would be able to assess each situation accurately and impartially."

      Sainz expressed uncertainty about the necessity of guidelines but emphasized that drivers overwhelmingly support the idea of knowledgeable former racers making the decisions. Chandhok, Palmer, and Davidson are believed to have been specifically referenced as models of the kind of structure the GPDA desires for the future in Thursday's meeting.