FIA lengthens second DRS zone for Bahrain GP

In a bid to facilitate overtaking at this weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix, the FIA has lengthened the Sakhir circuit's second DRS zone.

The governing body stopped short of adding a third DRS stretch as it did in Melbourne, but drivers will be allowed to activate their Drag Reduction System 170 meters after Turn 14, or 100 meters earlier than last year.

Magnussen sees F1's overtaking pains as circuit dependent

The change will hopefully boost overtaking opportunities for the run down to Turn 1.

As a reminder, drivers need to be within a second of the car they are following at the detection point to activate DRS.

The first designated DRS zone at Bahrain is located between Turns 10 and 11 and has not been altered.

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.