F1 Q&A: Wet-weather starts and future V8 turbo engines
BBC Sport's Andrew Benson answered questions on wet-weather racing and the future of Formula 1 engines. He explained that a software issue with wet-weather settings caused the delayed start in Malaysia, not excessive caution. Benson also indicated that F1's next engine regulations appear to be moving toward V8 turbos.
The rain-affected race in Malaysia was won by Max Verstappen, with Kimi Antonelli second and Lewis Hamilton third after an early wrong tyre call. Antonelli's lead grew to 84 points when George Russell retired with an engine failure. Attention now turns to Singapore, F1's original night race.
The wet start was delayed because an FIA-supplied engine setting contained a fault affecting several cars, including the front-row entries of Verstappen and Hamilton. Formation laps were cancelled while revised software was distributed. By the time the field started, a 25-minute dry spell had left the track much less wet. A safety car on lap nine preceded the switch from intermediates to slicks.
The outcome may shape fan discussion around race control and safety, especially among viewers who want more wet-weather action. Teams and drivers could face scrutiny over tyre calls and software reliability, while Singapore's night race may keep attention on visibility and scheduling. If engine rules move toward V8 turbos, manufacturers, sponsors and fans may reassess future costs and competition, though any societal effect would likely remain within motorsport and its global audience.