F1 Azerbaijan GP: FIA introduces new rule change for red flag restart amidst Baku race weekend

F1 wants to address the tire temperature issues by modifying the rules.

F1 Azerbaijan GP: FIA introduces new rule change for red flag restart amidst Baku race weekend

Azerbaijan GP. Image via Sportskeeda.

The Formula 1 cars are more prone to crashes at street circuits like Baku. As a result, the race is often red-flagged. The FIA is considering a change to the F1’s red flag restart procedures. This change is aimed at giving drivers a better chance to warm up their tires. This is mainly to avoid chaos at the restarts. The perfect example would be the Australian GP. 

There were multiple restart incidents in Melbourne. The F1 drivers complained they could not warm up their tires while following the safety car. It is mandatory to follow the safety cars as it is the initial part of the procedure. The “red flag restarts” was a topic of concern. Therefore, it was discussed at the drivers’ briefing on Friday during the Azerbaijan GP weekend. 

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The Baku street circuit is one of the fastest and scariest tracks of the season. The high-speed corners are risky. Hence, the FIA is concerned about a repeat of the Australian GP episodes in Baku. But the issue is that the FIA cannot change its sporting regulations in the middle of a race weekend. However, thanks to the two-time world champion, Fernando Alonso, they have found a solution. The aim is to address the tire temperature problem without changing the current regulations. 

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The FIA has taken Fernando Alonso’s suggestion for the tire warm-up issue

Azerbaijan GP. Image via Pitpass.
Azerbaijan GP. Image via Pitpass.

According to the rules, “The sprint session or the race will be resumed behind the safety car when the green lights are illuminated, and the safety car leaves the pit lane. Drivers must follow the safety car no more than ten car lengths apart.” The Aston Martin driver suggested that the cars can leave 30 seconds early. The race leader can lead the pack onto the track and set the pace. This would create a gap. The other drivers would get a chance to warm up their tires. Alonso feels this would be better than having the pace determined. 

The FIA asked the teams for their feedback on this procedure. It is important to note that the actual rule is not changed. The organization will make a final decision after the teams respond. As per the current rules, once the FIA light panels display “SS” and the orange lights of the safety car are turned off, a message “STANDING START” will be sent to the competitors. 

There is another option as well. If the safety car switches its lights off earlier and returns to the pits, it could create more adaptability for drivers. This would help them warm their tires. The FIA prioritizes the drivers’ safety. After the most chaotic Australian Grand Prix, the governing body of motorsports heard the drivers’ pleas and wants to make it easier for them. 

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