FIA details software fix after chaotic F1 start in Malaysia
The FIA has finished its review of the power-loss issue that disrupted the start of the Formula 1 race in Malaysia. It found that low engine RPM in certain sectors caused cars to lose more power than intended and fail to recover. The governing body will reinstate the updated power unit software for Singapore if wet conditions return and plans another wet-weather update for the United States Grand Prix.
The review followed a rain-delayed start in Malaysia. After conditions improved, several cars lost power during an attempted formation lap, triggering a red flag and an emergency software patch. Max Verstappen ultimately won. The FIA traced the issue to low engine RPM in sectors using a 250kW power reduction, causing greater-than-intended and unrecoverable power loss.
The FIA said the upgrade used in Malaysia will return for Singapore if similar weather is expected, with another wet-weather software release planned for the United States Grand Prix on October 25. Before the original package, teams ran simulations and full-scale tests during Free Practice 1 at the Belgian and Dutch Grands Prix.
This software fix may mainly affect F1 teams, drivers, and race officials, whose safety and competitive fairness depend on reliable power-unit behavior in wet conditions. Fans could see fewer disrupted starts and clearer races if updates work. Suppliers and engineers may face tighter validation demands, while broadcasters and circuits could benefit from reduced delays. The episode may also shape how motorsport governing bodies approach software-dependent regulations.