The hidden tool that F1 engineers rely on
Race traces are the little known tool that reveal all the strategic insights teams need to know during a grand prix. Ex-McLaren Formula 1 engineer Mark Williams explains all
Engineering
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In the late 1990s, our strategy team called me over to demonstrate a new tool that would put an end to ad hoc race calls. It basically ran thousands of simulated races and came up with the most likely outcome for the race. But the best bit was the user interface, the race trace. When asked what I thought of it my immediate reaction was: "When can I have it?"
I've been fortunate to work with some of the brightest minds in the sport. These people can look at the numbers on a timing screen, follow multiple cars and determine their pace and make good race strategy calls.
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