FIA introduce random "deeper technical checks" in F1

Formula 1

FIA introduce random "deeper technical checks" in F1

The checks are common place in other FIA series

Sam Hall

Saturday 27 March 2021 11:11 Updated: 11:18

The FIA has confirmed changes made to the Formula 1 post-race scrutineering process with one car to be selected at random for "deeper disassembly".

Although a new process to F1, the more stringent post-race checks being introduced by the FIA are routinely carried out in other world championships and competitions sanctioned by the governing body.

The change was communicated to teams one week ago via a technical directive and a steward's bulletin issued on Saturday morning explained details of the alterations and how the checks will be carried out.

Article continues under video

The bulletin read: "In order to complete deeper technical checks of the cars in the championship, the technical delegate [Jo Bauer] will routinely and randomly select one car at each event following the race for deeper disassembly, conformity checks and checks of software and systems.

"Additional checks may also be carried out on the competitor’s other car. This is in accordance with Art. 14.3 and 25.5 of the FIA Formula One Sporting Regulations."

The new checks are on top of the current FIA post-race scrutineering processes and are not a replacement.

Whilst completing the checks, should any 'irregularities' be uncovered, the FIA will "take the appropriate steps to safeguard any evidence that may be discovered in these technical checks, including impounding and sealing relevant parts and information."

Such a discovery would begin a deeper investigation process "in accordance with Art. 11.9.3.t of the ISC which concerns decisions that must be taken after an Event, the Stewards may reconvene, or delegate their authority to a subsequent panel of Stewards, or to a panel assembled by the FIA for that purpose."