What is parc Ferme in F1?
Parc fermé is an important rule in Formula 1 racing that limits and supervises changes and repairs made to a car between its pre-race and post-race technical inspections. The pre-race parc fermé begins the moment a competitor exits the pit lane to begin their qualifying session, while the post-race parc fermé starts immediately after the race. During the parc fermé period, teams are only allowed to perform minor, pre-approved service to their cars. If a team violates parc fermé rules, they may face penalties ranging from starting from the back of the grid to disqualification from the race.
If you’re a fan of Formula 1 racing, you’ve likely heard of the term “parc fermé.” Parc fermé is an important rule that limits and supervises changes and repairs made to a car between its pre-race and post-race technical inspections.
Understanding the ins and outs of parc fermé is essential for both teams and fans alike. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Formula 1’s parc fermé rules, including how it works, when and where it applies, and what types of changes teams are allowed to make under parc fermé conditions.
Whether you’re a die-hard F1 fan or just starting to get into the sport, this article will provide you with a comprehensive guide to parc fermé.
Parc Fermé in Formula 1?
Parc fermé is a rule in Formula 1 racing that helps officials limit and supervise changes and repairs made to a car at any time between its pre-race and post-race technical inspections. In this article, we will explain how parc fermé works, when and where cars are considered to be in parc fermé, and what types of changes teams are allowed to make under parc fermé conditions.
How Parc Fermé Works
Parc fermé is a French phrase that means “closed park.” In Formula 1, the term “parc fermé” is used to refer to both an idea and a place. When cars and teams are in the situation of being subjected to parc fermé rules, they are referred to as “in parc fermé.” The physical area where cars are kept while under parc fermé restrictions is known as “the parc fermé.”
Cars and teams can be in parc fermé even when they are not within the physical confines of the parc fermé area. Such instances include when a car is on track during qualifying or in an FIA garage bay for a scrutineering weighing session.
While cars are under parc fermé conditions, one scrutineer race marshal is assigned to supervise each car to ensure that no unauthorized work is being performed. This means that a team of at least 20 scrutineers is required to monitor the field during parc fermé.
Pre-Race and Post-Race Parc Ferme
There are two periods during the Formula 1 race weekend when teams and cars are subject to parc fermé rules, the pre-race parc fermé, and the post-race parc fermé.
The pre-race parc fermé begins the moment a competitor exits the pit lane to begin their qualifying session and lasts until the start of the race itself. During the pre-race parc fermé, all of the cars are kept in the parc fermé area at all times when they are not on the track for qualifying or being inspected and weighed by the scrutineers. Teams and competitors are only allowed to perform minor, pre-approved service to their cars.
The post-race parc fermé begins immediately following the race. Competitors exit the track and go directly to the parc fermé area, which is secured by the race officials.
At this time, no one is allowed inside the parc fermé except for the competitors and authorized personnel. Drivers are required to remain inside the parc fermé until they have been weighed with all their gear, at which time they are allowed to leave the area.
What’s allowed during Parc Ferme
During the pre-race parc ferme, no major components such as the engine or gearbox are allowed to be modified or changed. However, minor services may be performed, and smaller parts may be changed, provided it is done under official supervision.
Permitted services include starting the engine, adding or removing fuel or compressed gasses, draining engine oil, bleeding brakes, and changing and balancing wheels and tires. Teams can also change bodywork, make cosmetic changes, and adjust the front wing.
If the race weekend features a sprint session, teams are permitted to perform additional services during the pre-race parc fermé, including changing brakes, exhaust systems, air filters, oil filters, and spark plugs.
Any damage that the car has sustained as a result of an accident during qualifying is also allowed to be repaired. If parts are removed to repair damage or for any other reason, they must be kept nearby so that scrutineers can examine them.
Penalties for Violating Parc Fermé Rules
A violation of parc fermé rules during the pre-race parc fermé period will most likely result in the competitor being forced to start from the back of the grid. However, a violation during the post-race parc fermé is grounds for disqualification from the race and loss of points and finishing position.
Parc ferme is an important rule in Formula 1 racing that limits and supervises changes and repairs made to a car between its pre-race and post-race technical inspections. The pre-race parc fermé begins the moment a competitor exits the pit lane to begin their qualifying session, while the post-race parc fermé starts immediately after the race. During the parc fermé period, teams are only allowed to perform minor, pre-approved service to their cars. If a team violates parc fermé rules, they may face penalties ranging from starting from the back of the grid to disqualification from the race.
