F1 figures urge simplification after Sepang software disruption
Multiple Formula 1 figures said the disrupted Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang showed how complex current systems can create problems. The race was delayed after a software issue affected several cars on the formation laps, and George Russell later retired with a power unit failure while running in podium contention.
The Bahrain Grand Prix at Sepang in Malaysia was heavily disrupted before it got underway. At a wet Sepang circuit, the start was aborted after several cars were left coasting with no throttle input on the formation laps because of a software bug. With the FIA working to send a fix, the race was delayed by more than 90 minutes.
The problems prompted criticism from across the paddock about the complexity of modern Formula 1 cars and systems. George Russell described the situation as "not very F1", while Mercedes called for simplification after the Malaysia chaos. McLaren team principal Andrea Stella said he accepts that software glitches can happen under the current regulations, but said the FIA should try to prevent a repeat.
Russell had been in contention for a podium before his race ended with a sudden power unit failure on lap 50. His retirement added to the sense of a difficult event, with the technical issues before and during the race becoming the main talking point.
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