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George Russell, Mercedes W13
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Opinion

The bold F1 DRS experiment that could end the debate forever

OPINION: The effectiveness of DRS in Formula 1 remains a topic of debate as the winter break gives a chance for reflection on the racing we saw in 2022. For all of its detractors, perhaps an experiment where DRS is cast aside and the impact this has on racing is in order to truly understand its merits in modern F1

Formula 1’s call out to fans this week to help vote for the overtake of the year has served to reignite the impact – good or bad – that DRS still has on the racing action. With the winter break offering time to reflect on the best moments of the past season, choosing specific best passes has thrown into the spotlight an inconvenient truth about 2022.

There were too many times throughout the year when getting within DRS range meant an overtaking move on the car ahead became guaranteed, not something exceptional to celebrate. DRS was never meant to be like that. When it was originally introduced in 2011, it had come in response to year after year where overtakes had been nigh-on impossible.

Previous article F1 announces Zandvoort contract extension until end of 2025
Next article FIA ready to shorten DRS zones in F1 2023

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