All change at Formula 1 race control

The FIA has confirmed it will change the way race direction at Formula 1 grands prix operates this year. It will introduce a Virtual Race Control Room, and a new directive that radio communications between teams and the race director will be removed ‘in order to protect the race director from any pressure and allow him to take decisions peacefully,’ says the FIA, which has also re-organised assistance to the race director.

The Virtual Control Room will be remote and will work similarly to VAR now used in football, and assistant referee in rugby. Teams will still be able to message the race director as they do in the WEC, but it will likely be a monitored digital system that replaces the radio communications that were broadcast on the television.

Similarly under review is the procedure to unlap cars behind the safety car, in a bid to avoid the chaos and backlash following the final round of the 2021 Formula 1 season.

Also confirmed was a change to the management structure in race control, with Michael Masi being replaced by FIA WEC race director, Eduardo Freitas, and Niels Wittich, supported by Herbie Blash as a permanent senior advisor.

‘With this plan, FIA opens the way for a new step forward in

Formula 1 refereering,’ said president, Mohammed ben Sulayem. ‘Without the referees, there is no sport. Respect and support of the referees is in the essence of the FIA. That is why these structural changes are crucial in a context of strong development and the legitimate expectations of drivers, teams, manufacturers, organisers and, of course, the fans.’