Report: The Formula 1 Pre-Season Testing Paradox

A tenth of a second is an eternity in Formula 1. In qualifying runs, it can mean the difference between the pole position and third place or even worse at the starting grid. During a pit stop, it can make or break your entire race.

Moreover, if you multiply that tenth by 50 times or more, i.e. the number of laps in a Grand Prix, it is the difference between spraying the champagne on the podium and heading to the pits with your head down in disappointment.

That valuable split-second is what hundreds of people strive for months each year. Shortly after the new season starts, the designers back at the factory start working on next year’s car.

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