Hamilton knows exactly where Vettel is due to the sophisticated communications between the Team Manager and the Driver. Plus, they are on the same circuit and generally in close visual range. (Barring sightlines and mirror limitations.)

Soaring is about the only sport where visual cues are not readily interpreted due to the large distances between competitors on course (excepting gaggles), limited rear visibility and the fact that every competitor looks virtually the same.

Think sailing: Big multicolored sails, two dimensions, 360 degree visibility, etc. Soaring is differentiated by the issues listed above. Just because technology has evolved to allow for real-time tracking of other competitors does not mean it should be immediately banned.

They said the same thing when GPS was introduced. The competitors with superior map and route calculation skills were virtually unanimous in trying to keep newbies without those highly developed talents from getting the GPS advantages that essentially levelled the playing field.

The GP format is certainly superior in spectator appeal, as well as technically determining superior pilot performance, but has its own associated downsides: Close quarters flying, gaggling and possibly hazardous finishes with multiple gliders diving together at the finish and then trying to land safely.

Truly spectacular, but very hazardous with more than a dozen gliders at a time. Use the GP concept at a WGC with 150 or more aircraft at the same airfield and you would be dealing with some very hairy situations.