FIA extends DRS zone for the second race in a row to aid passing in F1 · RaceFans

The FIA has made a significant extension to a DRS zone for the second race in a row as overtaking remains difficult for Formula 1 drivers.

The current generation of technical regulations was introduced two years ago with the aim of making it easier for drivers to follow each other closely and pass. The latest change indicates those running F1 still believe DRS is necessary to make passing possible.

The DRS zone on the longest straight at the Baku City Circuit, scene of this weekend’s race, has been extended by 100 metres. Drivers can now activate DRS 347m after the final corner, turn 20, compared to 447m last year.

A minor change has been made to the second DRS zone which begins at the exit of turn two. This has been shortened by just two metres.

Baku City Circuit track map, 2021 — **Track data: Baku City Circuit**

The change follows a similar alteration for the previous round at Monza. The DRS zone on the start/finish straight was extended by 103m there.

Last year the FIA briefly experimented with cutting the length of DRS zones at some circuits. However, this prompted complaints from drivers that it made overtaking too difficult. The DRS zone at Baku has been restored to its length prior to that change.

Two other DRS zones were shortened this year, compared to the previous season, at the Circuit de Catalunya and Spa-Francorchamps. The latter change also led to complaints from drivers that it reduced their chances of passing.

No major changes have been made to the Baku circuit for this year’s race but several barriers have been repositioned or replaced with new examples. Additional asphalt has been added in the pit exit, between turns two and three and between turns seven and eight – the latter being one of the narrowest parts of any track on the F1 calendar.

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