Former Ferrari and Williams engineer Rob Smedley has sharply criticized modern F1 race engineers for their slow responses and perceived lack of technical understanding. Speaking on the High Performance Racing podcast, Smedley called indecision and taking "forever to come with the answer" "unacceptable" in Formula 1.
Smedley outlined that a great race engineer must possess deep knowledge of aerodynamics, tyres, and mechanical systems, coupled with a crucial understanding of driver psychology and driving style. They must translate complex car behavior for the driver and provide swift, informed guidance. He particularly slammed engineers who wait for "some 22-year-old graduate" in Europe to provide answers while a driver is battling it out in a U.S. race like Miami. This reliance on remote expertise rather than on-the-spot insight is a major failing. Teams demand engineers who can deliver 80% of the solution instantly, ensuring drivers get critical support without delay on track.
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