Ferrari Halts F1 Race Start Change: Key Details Unveiled
Formula 1 is preparing for discussions on potential changes to the race start sequence, partly prompted by safety concerns. These issues have surfaced due to the complexities involved with the 2026 cars and their start procedures.
Challenges with the 2026 Cars
Early testing has revealed significant difficulties for drivers in executing effective race starts. Maintaining the turbo’s performance requires approximately ten seconds of preparation, while also managing battery charging limitations.
- Turbo spooling time: 10 seconds
- Increased risk of errors: 1 in 20 starts may be bundled
- Potential for accidents due to slow launches
These complications have led to concerns that drivers might struggle, especially those starting from the back of the grid. For instance, Gabriel Bortoleto, an Audi driver, highlighted the challenges, stating, “It’s quite a mess.”
Implications for Safety
The errors during starts have raised safety alarms within the paddock. Many believe the possibility of incidents occurring during the start is significantly high. The struggles with the start sequence can cause slower departures, which increases the likelihood of accidents on track.
Valtteri Bottas, competing for Cadillac, has expressed worries about the adequacy of time for drivers to prepare their turbos, particularly given his five-place grid penalty for the Australian Grand Prix.
Upcoming Discussions
As F1 teams prepare for the F1 Commission meeting, the potential for altering the start sequence will be a key topic. Two main options are under consideration:
- Delaying the minimum time between the formation of the final car and the start lights.
- Revising battery usage rules to facilitate smoother starts.
These changes aim to minimize risks during race starts, enhancing both driver safety and performance consistency.
Previous Resistance from Ferrari
However, implementing such changes may face hurdles. Ferrari previously blocked a proposal to revise the start sequence during discussions last year. Team principal Fred Vasseur argued that any difficulties with turbo lag were understood during the design phase.
This indicates that Ferrari may have engineered its vehicle to mitigate turbo lag issues, placing it at an advantage compared to other teams.
As the discussions loom, the F1 community is eager to see whether adjustments will be made to improve the safety and efficiency of race starts in the upcoming seasons.
