Carlos Sainz calls for F1 power reduction amid Miami Grand Prix storm threat

Carlos Sainz has urged Formula 1 to consider reducing the electrical energy output of the cars if heavy rain and thunderstorms hit the Miami Grand Prix, citing significant safety concerns. The Ferrari driver's call comes as forecasts predict a dramatic shift from weekend sunshine to severe wet weather for Sunday's race, raising the specter of a repeat of last year's treacherous Sprint event.

Why it matters:

Driver-led calls for preemptive rule changes highlight the unique and potentially dangerous challenges posed by extreme wet weather at street circuits. With the Miami track known for poor drainage and standing water, combined with close walls and limited visibility in the current generation of cars, the standard 350 kW energy deployment could create unacceptable risks. This proactive discussion underscores the ongoing balance between spectacle and driver safety in F1.

The details:

• The Forecast: While most of the Miami weekend is expected to be hot and sunny, Sunday's forecast is for heavy rain, lightning, and thunder—conditions known to change rapidly in Florida.
• Sainz's Proposal: The Spaniard advocates reducing the available electrical energy from the standard 350 kW to 250 or 300 kW for the race if conditions are wet.
• Safety Rationale: He points to last year's wet Sprint as evidence, noting the track's flat surface leads to dangerous standing water on the straights. The proximity of walls and poor visibility in spray exacerbates the danger at high speed.
• Additional Concerns: Sainz also questioned the logic of certain car settings, specifically mentioning the "SLM" (Straight Line Mode) in wet conditions, which he feels doesn't significantly reduce drag and should be reviewed.
• Drivers' Briefing: He hopes these points will be analyzed and discussed in the official drivers' briefing to ensure clarity and consensus on the rules of engagement for a wet race.

What's next:

The FIA and race control will monitor the evolving weather situation closely. Sainz's comments will likely fuel discussions in the drivers' briefing, putting pressure on officials to consider temporary regulatory adjustments for safety. The goal, as stated by Sainz, is to find a way to ensure a "good show" and a "good race" that is also safe, allowing drivers—who largely enjoy wet-weather racing—to compete with confidence despite the storm threat.