Lewis Hamilton expects Formula 1’s “tough” new team radio restrictions to have a “big impact” in 2016.
Drivers will have to race their cars alone and unaided this season, after a push by the FIA – the sport’s governing body – to clampdown on pit-to-driver communications.
As of this weekend’s Australian Grand Prix, teams will be limited to a 31-point list of permitted messages, to ensure drivers receive as little assistance as possible from the pitwall.
“The changes to the radio rules will have a big impact,” said the reigning world champion.
“The engineers now can't give you prompts or reminders that might affect performance during the race, so you have to remember so much more.
“This even applies to strategy, so when it's shifting throughout the race you won't be in the loop.
“It will be tough – but hopefully it will make for more exciting races.”
Hamilton admits he expects the competition to be stronger in 2016, but says that challenge only serves as motivation to his Mercedes team.
“Together, we're always searching for perfection,” he said.
“But that target is always shifting and you're constantly faced with new challenges to reach it.
“Just as you think you're close, suddenly you fall further back – like someone dangling a carrot on a piece of string and whipping it away just as you reach for it.
“It's tough mentally – but that's a good thing, as it forces you to be resilient and seek improvement in every area.
“I know there's still more to come from me – I think I've shown that in the past two years.
“There certainly needs to be some extra in my tank, as the competition will be stronger than ever this year.”
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