Verstappen's exciting restart tactics could inspire rule change - Brawn

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Formula 1 boss Ross Brawn was so impressed with Max Verstappen's tactics on the second restart in the Brazilian Grand Prix that the sport might tweak the rules or explore options to produce more excitement on race re-launches after safety car periods.

F1 changed the restart rules for 2019, with drivers now getting the green flag to race when they cross the finish line rather than at the Safety Car 'Line 1' located near pit entry, as was the case in the past.

On the second restart of the race, with just two laps remaining, a clever Verstappen, moving at a very slow pace, bunched up the field heading up the hill on to the main straight, preventing those immediately behind from slipstreaming the Red Bull driver when he suddenly accelerated away.

F1i's Driver Ratings for the 2019 Brazilian GP

The tactic worked perfectly as Verstappen head in Turn 1 with a small gap over teammate Alex Albon and Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton.

An attentive Brawn took note of the Dutchman's smart ploy.

"He was particularly strong at the second re-start, when he slowed the field right down with the aim of ensuring no one would be able to slipstream past him and snatch victory," observed Brawn.

"It was an exciting and fascinating re-start which will be analysed very carefully, as the closeness of the pack in the seconds leading up to the green flags resulted in a thrilling spectacle as drivers jockeyed for position and where the slightest advantage proved decisive.

"Examining the possibility of procedurally recreating those conditions in future is an interesting concept and one that will undoubtedly be explored in the coming period."

Speaking to Motorsport.com, Renault's Daniel Ricciardo admitted the restart tactics are fun as they deliver an adrenaline rush.

“It was cool,” said the Aussie, "I think because now they do no overtaking until the control line, or the start finish line, it allows us to basically not leave so early, and push it to the very end.

“When Lewis led the first restart, I think he went early, then saw the others were close so he slowed up again. But to be honest I love all that stuff now, so it's fine.

"You see cars are locking up brakes, and it can be a bit chaotic, but obviously that gives you so much adrenaline.

"And when the race is a little bit follow the leader at times, a restart ignites a bit more adrenaline in you."

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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.