To put it mildly, the 2021 Formula 1 season finished in shambles, and the FIA is hopeful that technological advances will avoid repetition. Formula 1 is developing a “Virtual Race Control Room” similar to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) used in soccer as part of a series of changes. The “backup” will be stationed outside the track and will enforce laws using the “most modern technological tools” via real-time communication with the race director.
To relieve stress, the race director will be cut off from direct radio communications. There will still be the option to raise questions, but there will be a tight protocol in place.
The decision comes after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix controversially ended in December 2021. Lewis Hamilton was leading the race, with five lapped cars sitting behind the safety car, thereby denying challenger Max Verstappen from challenging Hamilton’s position. However, race director Michael Masi controversially decided to let those in the lead “unlap” themselves by overtaking the safety car, allowing Verstappen a considerably easier time attacking Hamilton’s advantage. Verstappen passed Hamilton (who was running on worn tires) to win the race and, as a result, the Driver’s Championship.
Masi’s decision was overturned by Hamilton’s Mercedes team, who cited rules requiring all cars to unlap themselves and racing to continue the following lap rather than immediately. Verstappen’s front wing also briefly passed Hamilton when he was behind the safety car, according to the team. The appeal was denied by the race officials.
There is no certainty that the virtual control room will increase rule enforcement in Formula 1. However, this and VAR reflect a shift in officiating practices. Sports leagues tend to be less and less willing to depend only on human judgment – technology isn’t going to replace race directors or referees, but it could make their decisions more reliable.
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