DRS system to remain unchanged this season

The sports leaders were considering modifying the operation of the DRS to allow the new generation of cars to overtake more easily. The idea was to extend the use of the system to more than one second or to make it more effective.

In fact, the increase in aerodynamic downforce on this season’s single-seaters allows the cars to take corners at higher speeds, but the downside is that the dirty air left behind by a single-seater disrupts the cars following and makes overtaking more difficult.

But the Formula 1 team leaders were informed that no change was necessary. This is actually only a half-surprise since Ross Brawn, who is responsible for handling the sporting aspect on behalf of the new F1 leaders, expressed himself a few weeks ago against this system. The Briton is even in favor of its outright removal because, according to him, it distorts the sport.

Overtaking has indeed become more difficult for drivers with the new cars, and the increased width of the cars does not help. At this stage of the season, the total number of overtakes in races amounts to 116 compared to 308 after three Grand Prix in 2016.

But more difficult overtakes for the drivers make each successful attempt more rewarding, as they now have to attack with audacity and courage to beat their opponents on track. The DRS allows drivers to stay in contact or close in on the driver ahead rather than overtaking, which pleases the purists.