What is DRS in F1?

DRS is an essential part of any Formula 1 race, and can mark the difference between victory and defeat. IN a sport of such fine margins, tactics and timing are essential to make the most of the car’s capabilities.

But what exactly is DRS? Let us take you through it.

What does DRS stand for?

DRS in F1 stands for ‘Drag Reduction System’ and refers to a technology that enables a F1 driver to open a flap on their car’s rear wing, thus reducing aerodynamic drag and increasing top speed, making it easier to overtake. It is reported to offer a 10-12km/h boost, to be used at the most crucial moments of the race.

The premise behind DRS is to promote overtaking and enhance the competitiveness of F1, ultimately increasing the chances of wheel-to-wheel racing.

When was DRS introduced to F1?

DRS was first introduced to F1 in 2011 and has had a significant impact on race strategies and overtaking.

Its introduction was part of a broader effort to increase overtaking opportunities and make races more exciting, with races previously cited as having a lack of passing. This was due to powerful aerodynamics making it difficult for drivers to follow closely and therefore execute overtakes.

Why was DRS introduced to F1?

Prior to the introduction of DRS in 2011, drivers would often become stuck in the turbulent air behind the driver in front, hindering their attempts to overtake. Limited passing opportunities lead to criticism of a lack of excitement from both fans and drivers.

The competitive nature of F1 has been enhanced with DRS, with cars now able to be more closely matched. It gives the opportunity to a perceived inferior car to overtake some of the big boys in certain situations, and who doesn’t like an underdog story?

The system was also designed to add a layer of strategy to races. Drivers have to decide when and how to use it, based on factors like timing, track position and race circumstances. This added another dimension to the strategic aspect of the sport.

How does DRS work in F1?

As mentioned previously, DRS is a technology that reduces aerodynamic drag on a F1 car. This allows the car to achieve higher speeds and can help drivers when they attempt to overtake their competitors.

The core mechanic of DRS is the adjustment of the rear wing on the car. Drivers can activate this by pressing a button on their steering wheel after they enter a designated zone in each track.

After this, the rear wing flap opens which reduces the rear wing’s surface area and in turn, the aerodynamic drag of the car. The reduced aerodynamic drag then means that the cars can achieve massively increased straight line speeds.

When can DRS be used in F1?

DRS can only be used in designated DRS zones, which are specific straights on each track. In order to activate the system on raceday, a driver must be within one second of the car ahead at the detection point.

For example, Silverstone has two DRS zones on the track – one on the Wellington Straight and one on the Hangar Straight. For the Wellington Straight DRS zone, drivers would need to be within one second of the car in front at the detection point, which 25 metres before Turn 3 (Village). They would then be able to activate the DRS system 30 metres after Turn 5 (Aintree) for usage along the Wellington Straight.

Can drivers use DRS in Qualifying?

During qualifying, drivers are free to use DRS in its designated zones without needing to be within one second of another car. This enables them to achieve higher top speeds, improving lap times.

Is DRS always in use during a race?

No, DRS is only active after two laps of the race.

Additionally, the system is disabled whenever there is a Safety Car in use and generally will not be re-enabled until two laps after the Safety Car has departed the track.

Race Control also may elect to disable DRS if the track is deemed too wet or unsafe at the speeds provided by the usage of the system.

F1 Tickets

Whether it’s the long straights of Monza or the high-speed sections of Silverstone, the strategic use of DRS can make all the difference in a race.

If you want to witness the thrill of wheel-to-wheel battles firsthand, now is the perfect time to secure your tickets for an upcoming Grand Prix. Click here to purchase F1 tickets today!

F1 2025 calendar: when do tickets go on sale?

F1 driver salaries: how do much Formula 1 drivers earn?