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Giovinazzi urges F1 to implement rear-view cameras

Sauber's Antonio Giovinazzi believes Formula 1 should follow the practice initiated by GT racing and install rear-view cameras on F1 cars.

Endeless aerodynamic development in F1 has reached a point where rear-view mirror efficiency is now compromised by rear bodywork and wings that obscure a driver's vision towards the rear.

Haas' Kevin Magnussen has called out the impairment, claiming mirrors have become "really bad and useless", leaving drivers blind at crucial moments.

Drivers 'racing blind' due to 'useless' mirrors - Magnussen

Giovinazzi, who will race full-time with Sauber next season, insists the time has come to help a driver's vision with modern-day technology.

"I think it’s a good thing. Now it’s really difficult to see with the mirrors with the aerodynamics at the back of the car, so maybe a screen will help," reckons the young Italian driver.

"It will depend where you put the screen and everything, but I think it can be a good option.

"In an endurance race you need the mirrors more because an LMP1 car is coming or a GT car is behind you, so you need to see more.

"I think this was really good for drivers to have a camera to see what’s behind."

Queried on the subject, Haas boss Guenther Steiner revealed that the rear-view camera concept is currently being investigated by the FIA.

"The technology is out there' it’s already available," acknowledged Steiner.

"We could do that, and I think it’s in discussion with the FIA at the moment. [F1 Race Director] Charlie Whiting is looking into it."

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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.