Russell remains second: DRS breakdown and Hülkenberg's disqualification!

Russell remains second: DRS breakdown and Hülkenberg's disqualification!

George Russell will retain second place at the Bahrain Grand Prix after race stewards decided he will not receive a penalty for accidentally activating his Drag Reduction System (DRS). The incident occurred on the straight between turns 10 and 11 when Russell unintentionally activated the DRS during a radio attempt with the command post. Although he could have gained 0.02 seconds, he immediately reduced his speed before the next corner and did not benefit from the DRS activation.

Race stewards explained that the incident was due to a problem in the automated DRS activation system, caused by difficulties with an external timing loop. According to the FIA ​​regulations, manual DRS activation in accordance with Article 22.1 h) was approved in this case. Russell also had technical problems with his brake-by-wire system, which further complicated the situation. He was advised to use an auxiliary button in the cockpit that is used to manually activate DRS.

Technical details about DRS

The Drag Reduction System (DRS) was introduced in Formula 1 in 2011 to increase the number of overtaking maneuvers. The system reduces air resistance by hydraulically flattening part of the rear wing, thereby achieving a higher top speed on straights. DRS may only be used by drivers who are within one second of the vehicle in front.

The use of DRS is permitted in specified areas of the route and is automatically deactivated as soon as the brake pedal is pressed. For safety reasons, use is not permitted when wet. What was particularly noticeable was that Russell activated the DRS over a distance of 37 meters on an approximately 700 meter long straight.

Disqualification of Hülkenberg

Another notable decision in the race involved Nico Hülkenberg, who was subsequently disqualified. The reason for this was that the “skids” on its underbody were too thin. This is not the first time this season that a driver has been disqualified for this offence, Lewis Hamilton also suffered a similar fate at the Chinese GP. Hülkenberg finished the race in 13th place, and the disqualification has a less serious impact on him due to his position.

Performance of other teams

Aston Martin had a difficult weekend in Bahrain, finishing P15 and P17. Lance Stroll noted that there wasn't much positive to report and stressed that the team is working hard to improve. Fernando Alonso added that their speed couldn't keep up with the competition and a safety car meant they couldn't benefit from their strategy.

As the race progressed, rookie Antonelli had an unfortunate race as he finished 11th but found himself in an unfavorable position due to turbulent air. Williams' Alexander Albon was frustrated after a 12th place finish as he felt points would have been possible. The performances of some drivers reflected the challenges posed by the safety car, while Esteban Ocon in eighth and Oliver Bearman, who started last and finished P10, secured positive results for their teams.