F1 to consider extending DRS zones

  • Published on 22 May 2017 11:35
  • comments 4
  • By: Fergal Walsh

Formula 1 could extend its DRS zones in a bid to aid overtaking. Last time out in Spain, we saw the DRS zone on the start-finish straight extended by 100 metres in an attempt to help overtaking in the race. It seemed to work, as it allowed cars to get alongside, rather than the career behind blitzing past.

The decision will be made on a race-to-race basis. The settlement in Barcelona came as a result of the Russian Grand Prix, where there was one single overtake - a team order call from Sauber. Lewis Hamilton was in favour of the DRS zone extension: "Without that, overtaking would have been harder. It gave you 4 to 6 metres more."

Indeed, the report said that in the end, there were 18 overtaking moves in Barcelona, not including more near-passes and duels. But correspondent Michael Schmidt said: "The FIA wants to look at DRS zones on a case by case basis and extend them only where it makes sense."

DRS has been highly criticised in Formula 1 since its birth in 2011. Many fans label it artificial and state that it takes away from the real beauty of racing. It has since filtered down into the junior categories with Formula 2 (previously GP2) introducing it in 2015 while this year, GP3 runs with it for the very first time.

 

Fergal Walsh

 

Replies (4)

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  • If they help racing, why not!

    • + 0
    • May 22 2017 - 13:21
  • I actually dont think DRS should be altered at the moment, on the opposite I think its in it's most perfect incarnation at the moment. It gives just a slight boost to aid the driver in overtaking, but the driver still need to manage tyres and ERS and get into a good position. This is the maiden year of a new era, its bound to be less action. Leave the rules for now, and lets see how this and the next season turn out.

    • + 0
    • May 22 2017 - 13:49
    • Bhurt

      Posts: 320

      Agreed

      • + 0
      • May 23 2017 - 06:27
  • I can see why DRS is criticised, but I'm still intrigued by it. I'd be open to some experimentation to see if its reception could be improved, and if it could spruce up the show.

    • + 0
    • May 22 2017 - 22:12

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