P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Have you just started watching Formula 1 and are wondering ‘what exactly is DRS’?
If you’ve just started watching Formula 1 and are curious about DRS, it stands for drag reduction system, introduced in F1 in 2011 as an overtaking aid to increase the chances of completing a successful overtake. DRS is utilized by pressing a button on the steering wheel in designated zones on the track, reducing drag and increasing straightline speed by adjusting the rear wing flap angle. During races, drivers can activate DRS from lap two in the zones when they are within one second of the car ahead, improving their overtaking opportunities. DRS has been a controversial topic since its inception, with debate on its impact on racing quality and authenticity of overtakes, leading to changes in its application, such as adjusting zone lengths. The 2026 F1 regulations will see DRS being replaced by a new form of overtaking aid after being used for 15 seasons.
