DBMotorsport

Abstract In a powerful open letter, the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) urged the FIA to reconsider its recent stance on language penalties and called for respect and maturity in driver relations. The GPDA also emphasised financial transparency, particularly in relation to fines, which has been the FIA's method of enforcing this rule. This article examines the recent GPDA statement, its implications for the relationship between the FIA and drivers, and the probable future outcomes in the sport. An Appeal for Respect in Driver Relations The Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA), a historic body advocating for the rights of Formula 1 drivers, has long played a role in promoting safety and protecting drivers’ interests. Founded in 1961 with its first President Sterling Moss, the GPDA has re-emerged as a unified voice in recent years, with leading drivers such as George Russell and Alexander Wurz highlighting the need for a fair and respectful dialogue with the FIA

  Abstract The 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos is already famous for its chaotic start, probably one of the most chaotic ever, triggered by rainy weather and an aborted start after Lance Stroll’s spin on the formation lap. This confusion led to unexpected decisions, including a controversial penalty for Lando Norris and George Russell over alleged start procedure’s violations. This episode has ignited debate on the FIA’s handling of start regulations, the consistency of penalties, and the challenges of managing fair play amid high-stakes moments. This article explores these issues, shedding light on the calls for clearer and more consistent FIA decisions. A Start Plagued by Confusion The 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos will be remembered for many reasons, from Verstappen's amazing drive to the rainy conditions, but the leitmotif of the weekend was chaos. The relevant episode for this article is the start, where a series of events led to one of the most chaotic sta

  Abstract One of the most important skills in motorsport is the ability to look forward, and as the thrilling 2024 season draws to a close, the 2025 Formula One season is already shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. With significant shifts in team performance, an influx of promising challengers, stable regulations and a renewed focus on competition, this upcoming championship has all the ingredients for a captivating season. Could this be one of the best seasons in Formula One history? The Red Bull's Performance Downfall In recent years, Red Bull Racing has set the pace, with Max Verstappen leading the charge and one of the most dominant seasons ever in 2023. Unexpectedly, just after the first ten races of the 2024 championship (seven of which were won by Max Verstappen), Red Bull's performance began to falter. Several factors contributed to this: the Horner gate just before the start of the season; the Verstappen crisis caused by Lewis Hamilton'

  Abstract The 2024 United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas was marked by two infringements involving Max Verstappen and Lando Norris. On the first lap, an early breach of the Sporting regulations between the two at Turn 1 went unpunished, while a subsequent violation at lap 52 saw Norris penalized for leaving the track and gaining an advantage. These two similar scenarios have sparked debate about the consistency of the FIA's decision making. Why did the stewards decide to overlook one offence and penalise another in almost identical circumstances? The First-Lap Infringement Tension was high right from the start of the 2024 United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas as Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, two of the top contenders on the grid, battled for position. As the lights went out, Norris made a strong start and moved up alongside Verstappen as they headed into the infamous Turn 1 - a wide, uphill left-hander known for its potential to cause chaos

  Abstract Innovation and creativity are the backbone of Formula One, but they often walk a fine line between ingenuity and controversy. Red Bull's recently leaked system for modifying the height of the T-tray (a critical aerodynamic component at the front of the car) has sparked widespread debate. Much like the "flexi-wing" saga, this innovation exploits grey areas in the regulations, raising concerns about fairness and regulatory oversight. Despite clear rules regarding aerodynamic elements and “Parc fermé”, Red Bull's T-tray modification system has once again put the spotlight on how much room for interpretation teams have and how far they are willing to push the boundaries. What is the T-Tray? The T-tray, also known as the “tea tray” or the “bib”, is a horizontal plank under the front of car that plays a pivotal role in managing airflow beneath the chassis. As a mandatory component per FIA regulations, its primary function is to regulate the car’s ground clearan

  Abstract Flexibility is often seen as a positive factor in human behaviour, but sometimes it can also be seen as a problem. Formula One teams are always looking for grey areas to exploit and, in this case, they find it in the wings regulations. From TD018 to TD034G, the FIA has made many improvements to mitigate the problem, but no action has been taken, even though the F1 Technical Regulations were already clear on the subject.                McLaren's rear wing - Source: Getty         What are Flexi-wings? One of the fundamental issues with this generation of F1 cars has to do with the flexibility of the wings. This part of the car has always been exploited as much as possible by the engineers and aerodynamicists, considering the key role they play in creating good aerodynamics and balance of the car. The technical development of composite materials has also contributed to the creation of materials with specific characteristics, capable of being both rigid and flexible