
Red Bull Racing’s “number two driver,” Mark Webber, seen here with a cat, has just about had enough of technology ruining all the fun of Formula One racing. Several new systems have been put in place in many of the cars this year, but the systems go overboard with the technology, apparently. Not only that, but the reliance on all this technology may be distracting, as Webber says drivers ought to be 100 percent focused on the road, but now they’re practically being asked to jailbreak their car while trying not to veer off into the gravel.
Veteran pilot Rubens Barichello, of Williams, is also at wits’ end.
The real negative was that we couldn’t just concentrate on driving. It’s just not enjoyable – pressing buttons, changing gear, pressing and holding.
One more driver hates it, and that’s Nico Rosberg, of Mercedes.
You push the button and the thing goes down at the back, so you feel the car get lighter and then you release the button again before the braking and you think: ‘Jeez, what if this thing hasn’t actually gone back to its old position?’ Then you’re off in a big way. It takes a bit of trusting.
Sounds like a nightmare, “push the button and this thing goes down at the back.”
Disrupt 2026: The tech ecosystem, all in one room
Your next round. Your next hire. Your next breakout opportunity. Find it at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, where 10,000+ founders, investors, and tech leaders gather for three days of 250+ tactical sessions, powerful introductions, and market-defining innovation. Register now to save up to $400.
Save up to $300 or 30% to TechCrunch Founder Summit
1,000+ founders and investors come together at TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026 for a full day focused on growth, execution, and real-world scaling. Learn from founders and investors who have shaped the industry. Connect with peers navigating similar growth stages. Walk away with tactics you can apply immediately
Offer ends March 13.

Maybe Formula One should go back to its routes, as seen here. Scarves and goggles all the way.