Safety Under the Microscope: FIA to Scrutinize 2026 Start Procedures at Bahrain

Following mounting safety concerns surrounding current race-start protocols, the FIA will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of potential adjustments to Formula 1's starting procedures. The assessment will take place during this week's Bahrain test session, as the sport looks to address the controversial issues that have emerged with the existing system.

Formula 1

Safety remains at the forefront of motorsport governance as the FIA prepares to examine possible revisions to Formula 1's starting procedures, with particular focus on the contentious methods currently employed at the beginning of races.

The governing body has scheduled an in-depth evaluation during the Bahrain test sessions taking place this week, prompted by a series of safety-related incidents and concerns that have brought the existing start protocols under increased scrutiny. The sport's technical officials aim to identify areas where modifications could enhance driver safety and improve the overall integrity of race commencements.

This proactive review reflects the FIA's commitment to continuous improvement in Formula 1 operations, particularly in areas where safety vulnerabilities have been identified. By utilizing the Bahrain test environment, the organization will have the opportunity to thoroughly assess potential changes in a controlled setting before implementing any decisions that could affect the competitive season ahead.

The evaluation represents an important step in the ongoing dialogue between the FIA, teams, and drivers regarding best practices for the sport's operational procedures.

Original source

The Race

Read Original

Related Regulations

sporting Regulations

Hover over badges for quick summaries, or scroll down for full official text and simplified explanations.

Full Regulation Text

Sporting Regulations

Article 48.1

FIA Source

Race Start Procedure

Chapter: Chapter IV - The Race

In Simple Terms

The race start follows a strict countdown. At the one-minute signal, all engines must start and team staff must leave. If a car has problems after the 15-second signal, the driver raises their arm and the car gets pushed to the pit lane while others proceed. This ensures safety and fairness in race starts.

Engines must start at one-minute signal
Team personnel leave grid by 15-second signal
Drivers with problems raise arm for assistance
Stricken cars pushed to pit lane

Official FIA Text

When the one minute signal is shown, engines should be started and all team personnel must leave the grid by the time the 15 second signal is shown. If any driver needs assistance after the 15 second signal he must raise his arm and, when the remainder of the cars able to do so have left the grid, marshals will be instructed to push the car into the pit lane.

formation lapaborted startgrid penaltiesrace startgridformationcountdownone minute

2026 Season Regulations

Sporting Regulations

Article B5.4.1

FIA Source

Delayed Start Procedure

Chapter: B5

In Simple Terms

If there's a problem before the race officially starts (like bad weather or track hazards), the Race Director can delay the start. When this happens, orange lights flash on the gantry and a 'DELAYED START' sign appears to tell everyone to wait.

Can only be used before the formation lap begins
Orange lights and a displayed board signal the delay to all teams and spectators
Gives the Race Director control to ensure safe racing conditions
Part of the official grid procedure rules

Official FIA Text

If at any point during the grid procedure (Article B5.5), the Race Director decides the start of the TTCS should be delayed, and the formation lap has not started, the orange lights on the start gantry will be illuminated and a board saying 'DELAYED START' will be displayed.

delayed startrace directorgrid procedureorange lightsformation lap

2026 Season Regulations

Sporting Regulations

Article B5.4.2

FIA Source

Delayed Start Restart at Ten Minute Signal

Chapter: B5

In Simple Terms

If the F1 race start is delayed, the officials will restart the starting procedure when the 10-minute signal is given. This gives teams and drivers a clear moment to prepare for another attempt at getting the race underway.