After a chaotic start to the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, the sport’s governing body, the FIA, announced that its review of the software malfunction is complete. The investigation focused on a power‑unit bug that left several cars stranded on the formation lap, prompting a red‑flag and a delayed race start.
What the FIA found
The FIA determined that cars running at low engine RPM in sectors where a 250 kW power reduction was applied experienced an unexpected loss of power that could not be recovered. The problem stemmed from the software configuration used during the wet‑weather conditions.
FIA single‑seater director Nikolas Tombazis explained that the software had not been tested as extensively as the organization would have liked because of limited wet‑running this season. He noted that during the formation lap, some cars slowed to a near‑standstill, creating a “concertina effect” that prevented the power‑unit software from redeploying power.
Immediate technical response
Within five minutes of the start procedure being suspended, the FIA’s technical team identified the cause and released an updated software configuration to the eleven teams. Eighteen minutes later, the FIA provided further technical guidance and clarifications on installing and operating the revised software.
Prior to the original rollout, teams and manufacturers had conducted simulation exercises and full‑scale testing during Free Practice 1 at the Belgian and Dutch Grands Prix. The review confirmed that those tests were completed, but the limited wet‑weather data this year meant the software was not as robust as desired.
Upcoming race updates
As a result of the review, the FIA will reinstate the “Power Unit software configurations upgrade” for the Singapore Grand Prix if similar weather conditions are expected. In addition, a further wet‑weather software update is scheduled for the United States Grand Prix on October 25.
Thunderstorms are forecast for Singapore this weekend, making the updated configuration a prudent precaution for the upcoming race.
Impact on teams and drivers
Max Verstappen ultimately won the race in Malaysia despite the early disruptions. Teams now have clear guidance on the revised software, which should reduce the risk of power‑loss incidents in future wet‑weather events.
The FIA’s swift identification and correction of the issue demonstrates the organization’s commitment to maintaining safety and competitive fairness in Formula 1, even when unexpected technical challenges arise.
Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
