DRS at the F1 United States Grand Prix in Austin: How Drag Reduction Systems work and where can they be used

Formula 1 returns to the United States this weekend for the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, running from Oct. 17 to 19.

The main Grand Prix will take place on Sunday, as usual, but fans can also enjoy a Sprint race on Saturday, offering more flat-out racing than a traditional Grand Prix weekend.

In both the Sprint and the full-length Grand Prix, the circuit’s Drag Reduction System (DRS) detection zones could play a major role in determining race results.

What is DRS?

DRS is a driver-controlled device designed to aid overtaking and increase wheel-to-wheel racing opportunities on the F1 circuit.

Simply put, DRS works by opening a flap in the rear wing of the car, which reduces aerodynamic drag and increases straight-line speed. This allows drivers to close the gap on the car ahead faster than they normally could.

An actuator controls the flap in the middle of the rear wing. Drivers can open it with a button on the steering wheel, reducing drag and rapidly boosting the car’s velocity.

When can DRS be used?

Drivers can only activate DRS in designated parts of the track called DRS detection zones. The system is only available when the trailing car is within one second of the car in front, including lapped cars.

Electronic timing loops embedded in the track measure the distance between cars. When the trailing car is less than one second behind, a signal is sent to the driver, who can then manually activate DRS. Dashboard lights indicate when the system is ready, while the leading driver is usually informed by radio that a rival is close.

DRS can be used during practice, qualifying, the Sprint, and the Grand Prix, but only within the specified activation zones.

When DRS can’t be used

DRS cannot be activated during the first two laps of a race or immediately after standing or rolling restarts following a safety car or red flag period.

FIA race officials can also temporarily disable DRS at their discretion if conditions are unsafe, such as in wet weather or if a car goes off track. Debris on the circuit may also trigger a temporary deactivation of DRS in specific zones.

DRS zones at the Circuit of the Americas

There are two DRS detection zones at COTA. The first is on a straight section of the track between turns 10 and 11 in sector 2.

The second zone lies between turns 18 and 19 toward the end of sector 3, with the home straight following turn 20.

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