After Jules Bianchi’s crash at Suzuka in the Japanese Grand Prix last year, the Formula One governing body Federation Internationale de l’Automobile [FIA] decided to employ a virtual safety car concept during races to warn drivers of impending dangers on the track before an actual safety car could get out on the track to slow them down. The idea, called a Virtual Safety Car, was tested in the final three races of the 2014 season and will now be employed for the 2015 season.
According to an official statement from the FIA, the VSC will normally be used when double waved yellow flags are needed on any section of track and competitors or officials may be in danger, but the circumstances are not such as to warrant the use of the safety car itself.
Drivers will be notified when the rule is in operation by electronic marshal panels that will display “VSC” and the teams will be notified by the official messaging system.
Teams will be alerted when it is safe to resume racing via the messaging system, while the panels on the display boards with change to green 10 to 15 seconds later.
As part of the rules drivers will not be allowed to enter the pits unless for the purpose of changing tires and must stay above a minimum time as set out by the FIA in each marshaling sector. Cars are not allowed to be driven unnecessarily slowly, erratically or in a manner which could be deemed potentially dangerous.
The first race of the 2015 Formula One racing season takes place in Melbourne, Australia on March 15, 2015.