KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 8 (Bernama) -- The Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) has refuted claims that its power unit software configuration was rolled out untested, confirming that the package underwent rigorous simulation and on-track evaluations prior to deployment.
Setting the record straight following a technical glitch that disrupted the start of the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix (GP) race in Malaysia 2026 last Sunday, the world motorsport governing body said teams and engine manufacturers had validated the system through extensive simulation exercises beforehand.
"The software package was subsequently tested in full-scale running during Free Practice 1 sessions at both the Belgian Grand Prix and the Dutch Grand Prix," the FIA said in a statement shared on its social media today.
The clarification follows a post-race review into the software issue that occurred during the formation laps of the race in Sepang International Circuit last weekend.
FIA said that its investigation concluded that several cars operating at low engine RPM in sectors where a 250-kilowatt power reduction was enforced suffered an unintended drop in power that could not be recovered within those zones.
It said the glitch prompted the suspension of the start procedure at 3.45 pm after two formation laps followed by a 48-minute resolution process by the FIA technical team and engine suppliers to update and integrate revised configurations, the race resumed safely from the pit lane at 4.33 pm.
Looking ahead, the FIA said the configuration established at Sepang would be reinstated for the Singapore Grand Prix should similar weather conditions be expected.
A further update to the wet-weather software will also be released ahead of the United States Grand Prix on Oct 25.
Acknowledging limited opportunities for track testing, FIA pledged to work closely with teams, power unit manufacturers, and the standardised Electronic Control Unit (ECU) supplier to strengthen software testing and independent verification capabilities.
The governing body also commended all teams, manufacturers, and technical personnel for their swift coordination in resolving the issue.
-- BERNAMA
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