Flavio Briatore has applauded F1's new regulations, saying they have "finally" put an end to processional races.
Last Sunday's Chinese GP proved to be one of the best races fans have witnessed in many a year. The grand prix had varied strategies, plenty of passing and even an overtaking move for the lead four laps from the end.
And it was all down to the sport's new regulations.
This season, F1 introduced adjustable rear wings, brought back KERS and swapped to Pirelli tyres. And all of those played a part in Sunday's Chinese thriller.
"I've seen the race on TV and I confess that I've never enjoyed myself so much," Briatore told the Gazzetta dello Sport newspaper.
"We used to get bored with car processions: who got off ahead would stay there until the end, if he didn't make mistakes.
"Instead every option is open now: Webber starts in 18th place and ends up just seven seconds off the winner, and with a few extra laps perhaps he could have won.
"A driver's ability is brought out by both his driving and his tactical reasoning because in the end, if you look at the classification at the finish, the best emerge.
"So I must say that the new rules have finally made F1 a thrill. Before it was depressive, while now there is unpredictability. The tyres have changed things for the better."
