FIA scraps DRS zone at Albert Park amid safety concerns

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The FIA has taken the decision to scrap one of Albert Park's four DRS zones on the grounds of safety.

The move has come in the wake of Friday afternoon's drivers' briefing in Melbourne and the changes implemented around the circuit which have increased average speeds around the track.

Subsequently, FIA Race Director Niels Wittich has removed the DRS stretch situated between Turns 8 and 9.

“For safety reasons, DRS Zones will be reduced to 3 for the remainder of the event," stated Wittich's note to F1's competitors.

“DRS detection 1 will be moved to before Turn 9, DRS activation 1 will be after Turn 10, DRS detection 2 will remain unchanged, with the following activation zones will be renumbered accordingly."

Read also: F1 drivers cheer Melbourne changes, but unsure about overtaking

While F1 hailed the revisions undertaken at Albert Park that have led to a faster, more flowing layout, several drivers were skeptical that the changes will actually lead to better racing on Sunday.

"I think it will be better," said an optimistic Daniel Ricciardo.

"Is it going to be 10 times better? Probably not to that extent. But I think it will be to some degree better.

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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.