Question

In Formula 1, what is the name of the device used to recover cars after crashes?

Answer 1

Answer: Crane

Explanation:

In Formula 1 racing, when cars crash or break down on the track, they need to be removed quickly and safely to allow the race to continue. The primary device used for this purpose is a crane, which is strategically positioned around the circuit during race sessions.

These cranes are heavy-duty mobile machines that can lift Formula 1 cars weighing around 740-750 kilograms. When a car becomes stranded after a crash, mechanical failure, or gets stuck in gravel traps, the crane operators work alongside the marshal team to carefully lift the vehicle and move it to a safe location away from the racing line.

The use of cranes in F1 has evolved significantly over the years, with modern circuits having multiple mobile cranes positioned at different sections of the track. This ensures that recovery operations can happen as quickly as possible, minimizing the time under yellow flags or safety car conditions. The crane operators are highly trained professionals who understand the urgency required in motorsport while maintaining safety standards.

However, the use of cranes during active racing conditions became a major safety concern after the tragic accident involving Jules Bianchi in 2014 at the Japanese Grand Prix, where his car collided with a recovery crane. Since then, F1 has implemented stricter protocols, ensuring that cranes and other recovery vehicles only operate when cars are running at reduced speeds under safety car conditions or when the session is completely stopped with red flags.