P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Carlos Sainz believes that it’s going to be a “tricky” 2024 Formula 1 season at certain tracks with the new
Since its introduction in 2011, drivers were allowed to open the slot gap in the rear wing to boost top speed after the second race lap. However, a regulation tweak announced before the 2024 season now permits drivers to use DRS starting already from the first lap of the race. This rule includes the second lap after a Safety Car period, but with the condition that drivers must be within one second of the car ahead at the DRS detection point. Red Bull’s Sergio Perez benefitted from this change and climbed from fifth to second place in Bahrain, expecting the modified DRS rule to lead to a “different” style of racing on street tracks. Perez and Carlos Sainz highlighted the challenges and strategies involved in managing tyres and gaining advantage with the new DRS rules, emphasizing the impact on racing dynamics and competitiveness. Reigning champion Max Verstappen acknowledged the potential for “interesting battles” with the new rules, emphasizing the balance between pushing hard and preserving tyres in the evolving race scenarios.
