FIA issues warning to those trying to cheat the start as new system launches in Miami.

FIA issues warning to those trying to cheat the start as new system launches in Miami.

      The FIA will keep a close eye on teams for any potential misuse of a new start safety system set to debut in Miami, as part of broader adjustments to the problematic 2026 regulations. In addition to modifications in energy management, the governing body is implementing a system aimed at preventing dangerously slow starts. This decision comes in response to several incidents this season, including a near-collision involving Franco Colapinto and Liam Lawson in Australia.

      FIA technical chief Nikolas Tombazis expressed concerns over turbo lag potentially leading to more frequent extremely slow starts. He cited the Lawson incident in Australia as an illustration of the potential consequences, emphasizing the need to avoid such situations.

      The new "low power start detection system" employs sensors to track acceleration at the start. If a car's performance drops below a critical level, the system will automatically activate additional power from the MGU-K, accompanied by warning lights for following drivers. However, the FIA has already cautioned teams against attempting to take advantage of this feature.

      Tombazis stated, "This is strictly a safety measure. The system aims to transform a disastrous start into a subpar one, but it won't convert a bad start into a good one." He confirmed that telemetry will be carefully analyzed in every instance. "We have clarified that this is not primarily designed as a lure for intentional misuse," he added.

      Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc dismissed any concerns about the impact of this change on his team's strong starts thus far. "The alterations to the starts won't affect our edge or the excellent launches we've had up to now," he commented. "It will only assist those who experience a very poor start, helping to prevent dangerous stalls among the cars."

      Additionally, FIA official Jan Monchaux voiced worries regarding the reliability of the new software that will control the overall energy management modifications in Miami. "I will remain apprehensive until race day because the software we had to develop hasn't undergone as thorough testing as we would have preferred," he remarked. "An unforeseen issue could arise that we want to avoid."

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FIA issues warning to those trying to cheat the start as new system launches in Miami.

Formula 1 | The FIA will keep a close eye on teams to prevent any possible misuse of a new start safety system being introduced in Miami, as part of broader rule adjustments for the (…)