FIA to address in Bahrain start lights visibility issue

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The FIA has taken note of several drivers' complaints regarding the visibility of the startline gantry in Melbourne for those located towards the rear of the grid, with a solution expected to be implemented in Bahrain.

Williams' Robert Kubica said he had been sized by a moment of panic as he took up his position at the rear of last Sunday's grid, the Pole's visibility of the start lights being partially obstructed by the rear wing of the car in front.

Why was Kubica seized with panic on the grid in Melbourne?

Red Bull's Pierre Gasly also complained of the same issue, putting the problem of this year's larger and taller rear wings.

"With the new bigger rear wings, I couldn’t see the lights on the grid so I had to react with the cars around me and I lost a couple of places," said the Frenchman.

Formula 1's governing body is working on a solution for next week's Bahrain Grand Prix as all tracks have the lights positioned at the same height.

As a potential solution, the FIA could prescribe the mandatory installation of repeater lights located along the grid as was the case before 2017, when lower rear wings no longer justified the additional signals.

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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.