Software glitch causes formation-lap chaos at Sepang
Formula 1’s return to Sepang was disrupted when multiple cars lost power on the formation laps because of a software problem, forcing an aborted start and a lengthy delay. Team figures and drivers said the sport must prevent a repeat, even as some accepted that occasional technical failures can happen with today’s complex cars and rules.
The Malaysia-hosted Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang was thrown into confusion before the start when a large number of cars suddenly suffered a software-related problem in wet conditions. Several drivers reported having no power or no throttle response on the formation laps, with cars crawling or stopping and the start ultimately being aborted.
With the event already running late because of rain, the disruption led to a delay of more than 90 minutes while the FIA worked to send a software fix. Reports described the scene as chaotic and unprecedented, with fans left waiting as officials tried to resolve the issue.
The fallout prompted criticism and wider questions about Formula 1’s technical direction. Mercedes figures pointed to the fiendish complexity of the current cars, McLaren boss Andrea Stella said such glitches may sometimes be unavoidable under the regulations but must not be repeated, and Carlos Sainz said F1 needs to take a hard look at itself after the incident.
Sources (10)
- The Race
- The Race
- Motorsport.com
- Motorsport.com
- BBC Sport F1
- The Race
- PlanetF1
- RaceFans
- autosport.com
- PlanetF1
Summaries are synthesized by F1 Hub from the linked sources. Follow the links above to read the full reporting at each outlet.