F1 driver aids clampdown due in 2016

Formula One is set for a further clampdown on the use of telemetric driver aids next year in the wake of revised rules on clutch settings being introduced for Sunday's Belgian Grand Prix.

The planned restrictions were revealed in a note sent by the sport's ruling body, the International Motoring Federation (FIA), to the teams on Thursday as the F1 circus set up camp again after a month’s break.

The FIA said it was bidding to outlaw telemetry and radio communications that improve performance, a move that will hand more responsibility back to the driver.

The moves have been welcomed by the sport's long-serving commercial ring-master Bernie Ecclestone who has called for changes that de-clutter the racing and give the drivers more control without so much computerised feedback.

The FIA said: "Methods to limit the telemetry channels sent in real time from the car to the pits will be investigated.

"The objective will be to restrict real-time data flow to signals essential to run the car. Any 'monitoring' or non-essential channels should only be logged to on-car memory."

The FIA identified more than 30 items of information messages that will be allowed in 2016 – including any safety warnings about damage, punctures or car failures that could be dangerous, including reports of problems with a rival team’s car.

Teams will still be allowed to give certain information and instructions relating to making pit stops, marshalling flags, track conditions, lap times and data about gaps between cars during qualifying sessions.

The move is in line with the FIA’s decision to enforce its rules more strictly, notably article 20.1 of the sporting regulations that states "the driver shall drive the car alone and unaided".

It is widely seen as part of the FIA's desire to make sure all drivers receive as little assistance as possible from the pit-wall during Grands Prix and to reduce the technological assistance drivers have received in recent seasons.
Source: AFP