FIA to Monitor Start-Safety System

Starting from the Miami Grand Prix, the FIA will begin testing a new system designed to prevent dangerous race starts. If a car gets a poor launch off the line, the electrical part of the power unit may automatically assist the car in starting safely and help it avoid a potentially dangerous situation.

FIA Race Director Niels Tomasson emphasized that the technology must not be used to gain a competitive advantage. According to him, it is intended only to ensure that “a bad start does not become a disaster,” rather than to improve a driver’s position.

Initially, there were discussions about introducing a penalty in the form of a drive-through pit lane if the system was activated. However, the teams rejected this idea. The FIA agreed but stated that it will closely monitor the use of the technology and, if necessary, make adjustments should any attempts be made to exploit it for sporting advantage.