No more DRS braking game in 2023: Detection zone now after Turn 27

The third DRS detection zone at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit of the Saudi Arabia GP has been moved and is now after the last corner. In 2022, the detection was still around the corner and that made for a remarkable F1 moment. So we won't see such a moment again this weekend.

F1 tries to reduce DRS

Formula 1 is experimenting with reducing the DRS effect this year. Cars have been able to track better since 2022 because the new concept of F1 cars means less disturbed air remains behind the car. As this has made following and overtaking a competitor easier, the DRS effect also seems to have become stronger.

To reduce the DRS effect, some zones will be removed or simply shortened. But a more significant intervention has taken place in Saudi Arabia. The detection zone of the last DRS moment has been moved until after the last corner. In 2022, that detection was still before the last corner in the braking point, which made for a remarkable moment.

No more 'braking game' between Leclerc and Verstappen in 2023

Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc, who were fighting for victory in the closing stages, realised after lap 42 that having DRS over start/finish was more important than having DRS on the straight leading up to the final corner. The one with DRS on the straight from start/finish could best capture the first position or, conversely, defend it. On the next lap, Verstappen came alongside Leclerc, but both drivers hit the brakes to avoid being in front when crossing the DRS detection line.

It was a striking sight, a situation we had not seen before in F1. While it was remarkable and made for an exciting and beautiful fight, it was a dangerous situation; both drivers locked-up. Besides, it is also questionable that the DRS was used in this way. Braking on a straight does not belong in racing. And perhaps especially not if the reason is to secure an artificial overtaking assist.