Overview
- A chaotic post‑session practice start in Bahrain, including Franco Colapinto losing control and narrowly missing stationary cars, refocused attention on start‑line safety, with Oscar Piastri saying miscommunication compounded that incident.
- Removal of the MGU‑H forces drivers to hold very high revs to spool turbos before launch, with observed practice‑start holds ranging roughly from six to 15–16 seconds and engine speeds commonly above 12,000rpm.
- The issue has been placed on the F1 Commission agenda, and teams are seeking rapid rule or procedural changes before Australia, such as longer start windows, limited MGU‑K use at zero speed, or a standardized pre‑launch window.
- Ferrari is believed to resist altering a roughly 10‑second procedure amid suggestions it holds a start advantage, with George Russell noting Ferrari may be running a smaller turbo that reaches its operating window faster.
- Liam Lawson reports Red Bull Powertrains’ start process does not require a 10‑second spool, underscoring large manufacturer variability that drivers and team bosses, including McLaren’s Andrea Stella, warn poses a safety risk.