I'll grant you all of your rebuttals and of course one has to be sure one is approaching this matter either from a 'Sport' or 'Entertainment' angle.
But when drivers constantly admit they have throttled back and driving economy runs (tyres and fuel) just to be able to finish then it is a different ball game.
It's like Gladiator Maximus pricking his opponent instead of administering the killing blow.
If you watch Junior Ginettas (British Sports Car Series) then you will experience balls out white knuckle driving from flag to flag - and the average age is 16. That, I contend, is motorsport. Is Forumula 1 really going to be these kids goal for anything other than birds, boats and booze?
I believe DRS is legit as drivers often had moveable aero devices before they were banned, but this tyre thing sucks. Of course, it improves 'the show' but not the sport.
I haven't done an exercise because I am mentally incapable, but what percentage of cars/teams with Renault engines have dramatically improved this season? Anyone have any quick idea?