Major F1 Collision at Suzuka Highlights the Significance of Aerodynamics in Moments

      Formula One/YouTube

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      The second practice session before the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka Circuit saw multiple incidents, but Alpine driver Jack Doohan experienced a particularly significant crash. He entered Turn 1 at speed and in control until the rear lost grip unexpectedly, causing the car to be violently launched off the track and into a wall. Fortunately, Doohan walked away unharmed, although the car was left in ruins.

      The accident occurred approximately 10 minutes into the second hour of practice on early Friday, ahead of Sunday’s main race. While F1’s official highlight reel explains the incident, YouTuber yelistener provided a more detailed breakdown using some insightful telemetry that I found particularly intriguing.

      As the commentators and sharp-eyed viewers noted, Doohan's issue was not due to entering the turn too fast, but rather because the car’s Drag Reduction System (DRS) was still active when it shouldn't have been.

      Modern F1 cars feature air flaps on their rear wings that drivers can adjust to manage downforce needs. During straight sections, these flaps are lowered to create a slot in the rear wing that enhances straight-line speed, sacrificing downforce and cornering grip. It's crucial that DRS is turned off before entering a turn; otherwise, the car becomes difficult to control.

      The green lights on Doohan’s steering wheel indicate when DRS is in use, meaning that slot is open. The fact that these lights remain visible as Doohan approaches Turn 1 signals impending trouble. Before long, his Alpine is positioned sideways relative to the track. While it's an obvious cause-and-effect scenario of "no rear grip, car spins," it's striking to see how quickly the vehicle transitions from stable to crashing when the driver anticipates downforce that isn’t available.

      Aerodynamics play a vital role in nearly all vehicles, but in the context of F1 speeds, it is paramount. If you want to illustrate this point to someone, simply share that clip.

      Do you have any insights on high-speed aerodynamics to share? Reach out to us at [email protected].