Formula 1 should optimize the use of DRS according to Ross Brawn
For many years now, the advantage of DRS has been colossal. In an attempt to solve this problem, Formula 1 should authorize its use only in certain cases, according to Ross Brawn.
Formula 1 is determined to encourage overtaking on the track, which has become difficult in recent years due to the disrupted air flow caused by the car ahead of a driver. The new regulations introduced in 2022 aim to make it easier for drivers to follow each other. As for the DRS, it still plays an important role by allowing a driver who wants to overtake to benefit from a higher top speed.
A modulable power.
The DRS zones are a real headache for Formula 1. Indeed, they should allow the driver to get closer while maintaining the spectacle. The effect that poses the most problems with DRS is the length of these zones where it can be used. In long straight lines that favor drafting, it allows the driver in a hunting position to effortlessly overtake his opponent. These long zones of DRS usage have made overtaking too predictable and the on-track spectacle is no longer as impressive.
« I think that we should not be afraid to limit the DRS on circuits like Monza, because it’s a bit like “you get behind someone, press a button, and overtake”. It’s kind of a ritual, isn’t it? It’s not very impressive. And so we should not be afraid to reduce the use of DRS when it clearly proves to be too powerful », said Ross Brawn.
The DRS remains, however, an inseparable parameter of modern Formula 1 as it allows these complex cars to overtake more easily. It should not be removed from the current single-seaters but rather optimize its use in order to have a more “natural” spectacle on the track.
I think that the DRS is a useful tool when we want to put cars behind each other, and so they can go side by side in a corner to have a wheel-to-wheel battle. We just need a judicious use of the DRS. That’s what we need, says Ross Brawn.
