Very large mirrors tested at Zandvoort to improve F1 visibility in 2023
In addition to having a modification of the DRS zone during the first free practice session in Zandvoort, the teams also installed larger rearview mirrors on the single-seaters.
This first modification of the DRS zone seems to be beneficial. At least, the drivers didn’t complain about it during the first session this Friday. It was possible to observe new rear-view mirrors, bigger than the ones already installed.
This is what was possible to observe on Sergio Perez’s car with a right rearview mirror much larger than the left one. The main reason? Ensuring more visibility for the drivers and thus more safety. This rearview mirror would allow them to see through the rear wing.
This decision may spark controversy since the possibility of installing cameras to replace rear-view mirrors had been discussed. This option was mentioned a few years ago, but there was no follow-through. In 2018, some drivers were pushing to have these cameras.
Carlos Sainz stated in 2018: “We must partly blame the fact that the rearview mirrors we have are not sufficient for F1 standards. We have proposed to have cameras instead of a simple mirror, which exists in other categories, and I believe the FIA will study that. But it has not yet been clarified.”
Valtteri Bottas had supported the Spanish driver: “I don’t see any reason why it wouldn’t work. I believe that many road cars and other racing cars with onboard technology have it, with a screen and small cameras. The technology exists. Our sport should be a leader in technology, so I’m sure it can be done, and it would be cool to see.”
These rearview mirrors could cause cars to lose a few hundredths, but is it really so important if it ensures more safety for the drivers?
