Radical technical changes, electrification, active aerodynamics – all in the name of improving ‘the show’ through providing more overtaking. Sound familiar?
In 2009 a new set of technical rules came into force in Formula 1, with the unanticipated consequence of one team running away with the world championship. Or, more accurately, escaping to such an extent in the first half of the season that it was able to stay out of reach as rivals caught up.
The standard optics through which to view the story of Jenson Button and Brawn GP’s world championship campaign are rose-tinted: an heroic odyssey, an irresistible epic of success against all odds. Almost as unlikely, indeed, as 60-odd-year-old Brad Pitt winning a grand prix; but…