Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsSauber

Sauber could struggle at Spa with new start procedure - Nasr

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Felipe Nasr believes Sauber's lack of a simulator could handicap the team's efforts to adapt to the new clutch-start procedure which will come in force at the Belgian Grand Prix.

The FIA has implemented a new rule by which the clutch bite point may not be changed from the moment a car leaves the garage for the first time after the pitlane is opened until after the race has started.

“The lack of simulator is a down factor, for sure, and the team is aware of that, which is why we’re trying to think about something next year," Nasr told Autosport.

“There is a lot you can practice before a race weekend on the simulator, so it obviously takes a bit longer to learn a new track.”

Absence the virtual opportunity to simulate, Sauber allocated time in free practice in Hungary to address the clutch bite point procedure with its drivers.

“It’s going to be difficult to have the perfect start without all the information from behind, but then it will be the same for everybody. All we are looking for is consistency; it doesn’t need to be the best. It’s easier to get it wrong than to get it perfect, so as long as we have a standard, that’s good."

“But at a time like this I would love to have a simulator, to try these things.”

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.