Why has DRS become less effective?

      Previously, many overtakes occurred on the 2.2-kilometer straight in Baku, but this year only 24 overtakes were recorded over 51 laps. One of the reasons is the reduced effectiveness of DRS. Mercedes' chief engineer Andrew Shovlin explained why this system has been working worse in recent years.

      Andrew Shovlin: "One of the reasons is the constantly increasing efficiency of the cars. Put simply, the car ahead no longer leaves such a large turbulent wake for the car behind as it did before. Cars generate ever greater downforce through the floor. This has led to a reduction in wing size. The large wings, which we used to call the 'Monaco wing' — they were also fitted in Hungary or Mexico — are now used very rarely. This reduces the effect of DRS. At Monza, DRS practically didn't work, because the rear wing was already offering almost no resistance to the airflow."