Articles

Affichage des articles du février, 2022

Formula 1 will use a VAR-style virtual control room to avoid controversy

Image
  Lars Baron/Getty Images The 2021 Formula 1 season ended  messily , to put it lightly, and the FIA is hoping technology will prevent a repeat. As part of a string of changes, Formula 1 is  implementing  a "Virtual Race Control Room" akin to the  Video Assistance Referee  (VAR) you see in soccer. The "backup" will sit outside the circuit and use a real-time link with the race director to enforce rules using the "most modern technological tools." The race director will also be cut off from direct radio communications to reduce pressure. It will still be possible to ask questions, but there will be a strict procedure for this. The move comes after a controversial end to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in December 2021. Lewis Hamilton was leading the race, with five lapped drivers sitting behind the safety car and preventing rival Max Verstappen from realistically contesting Hamilton's position. However, race director Michael Masi made the controversial decision...