Hamilton: F1 Should Be Extending Races, Not Shortening Them

Lewis Hamilton has criticized F1's decision to shorten Grand Prix distances from 2027, saying the sport should instead be extending races. He argues longer events are needed to preserve F1's physical challenge.

Why it matters:

F1 confirmed Monday that standard race length will drop from 305km to 290km—a move to cut costs tied to the 2027 power unit overhaul. The new engines will increase internal combustion output versus electrical energy, requiring a 5% fuel flow bump. A larger tank would add weight, contradicting the regulations' goals, so shortening races minimizes the risk of fuel exhaustion.

The details:

• Hamilton said he wasn't fully briefed but feels the opposite: "The opposite that I would be asking for is longer races."
• He pointed out that current Pirelli compounds often last the full race distance, leading to one-stop strategies and less physical strain.
• "This is supposed to be the sport that's the most physically demanding," he said, citing Singapore and the upcoming Malaysian GP as examples of the extreme conditions drivers should face.
• Malaysia returns this year for the first time since 2017, replacing Bahrain due to Middle East conflict. Hamilton called Sepang "awesome" and a track that "does give good racing."

What's next:

With Malaysia set to deliver a taxing physical challenge later this season, Hamilton is eager to take it on. His comments add to the growing debate over F1's future, as the sport weighs cost-cutting against its reputation as the ultimate test of driver endurance.