From RaceFans · · 1m 30s
FIA Updates F1 Software After Sepang Start Fiasco
FIA makes urgent F1 software fixes after Sepang race start chaos.
In brief
FIA makes urgent F1 software fixes after Sepang race start chaos. The FIA will implement further F1 engine software changes following power loss issues during the Sepang formation lap that forced a race restart. Originally reported by RaceFans.
FIA to make further F1 software changes
The FIA will introduce additional engine software updates after the chaotic start at last weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.
“The FIA will introduce further changes to its engine software following the farcical scenes at last weekend’s Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia.”
Formation lap power loss issues
Several Red Bull-Ford, Ferrari and Audi-powered cars slowed drastically during the formation lap before the race start.
“Several Red Bull-Ford, Ferrari and Audi-powered cars slowed drastically during the formation lap before the start of Sunday’s race.”
Race control suspends start procedure
Race control abandoned its attempt to start the race after cars experienced power loss issues during the formation lap.
“Race control abandoned its attempt to start the race and the FIA made changes to its software in order for the start to proceed.”
FIA identifies software cause
The FIA confirmed the fault occurred due to its software restricting power usage at different points around the lap.
“The FIA confirmed the fault occured due to its software which restricts how much power a driver may use at different points around the lap.”
Software update released quickly
Within five minutes of suspending the race start, the FIA technical team identified the issue and released an updated Power Unit software configuration.
“Within five minutes of the suspension the FIA technical team had identified the cause of the issue and released an updated Power Unit software configurations designed to address the problem.”
Teams complete software integration
Teams and Power Unit manufacturers completed the integration process with all competitors ready to start the race approximately 20 minutes after the suspension.
“Teams and Power Unit manufacturers then completed the integration process, with all competitors ready to start the race approximately 20 minutes later.”
FIA confirms software fixes for future races
The FIA will reinstate the Sepang configuration for Singapore Grand Prix if similar weather conditions occur and release wet weather software updates for the United States Grand Prix on October 25.
“The configuration established for the Sepang event will be reinstated for the Singapore Grand Prix should similar weather conditions be expected. Additionally, a further update to the wet weather software will be released for the United States Grand Prix on October 25.”
What matters most
The FIA will implement further F1 engine software changes following power loss issues during the Sepang formation lap that forced a race restart.
