F1 podium procedure will look very different in the 'new normal'

Formula 1 managing director motorsports Ross Brawn has revealed some of the logistical challenges in putting together a 'normal' F1 weekend in a 'abnormal' times.

Normally a hive of activity ahead of the race, Formula 1 grids will look entirely different in the new order.

“Things like the national anthem, you can’t have all the drivers grouped together and you can’t have our FIA Future Stars stood in front of them," Brawn told Formula1.com.

"The FIA Future Stars will still be part of the show virtually. They will have the uniforms sent to them, and they’ll send us videos of them with a message which we can play so there are lots of things we can do to make it entertaining.”

However, the biggest challenge comes with the presenting of trophies at the end of a race, with drivers unable to mix with one and other.

As a result, Brawn has suggested that the podium may not feature at all, with a presentation of sorts taking place on the grid in front of the top three cars.

He added: “The podium procedure can’t happen [as it does now], but we’re looking at doing something on the grid after the race,” says Brawn. “One option would be to line the cars up on the track and the drivers will stand in front of cars.

“We can’t present the trophies, as you can’t have someone in close proximity presenting a trophy, but we have worked it out, we have plans and procedures, we’re looking at how we can present it on TV.”

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