Formula E is considering to implement a new mid-race twist. According to a report, the series is set to launch a surprising new initiative where drivers could be awarded with points for leading randomly chosen laps, called ‘Golden Lap’.
The Race reports that the plans were proposed to all Formula E teams last month. Sources say that the plans got a lukewarm reception. The reason behind this is the fact that no consultation on the idea was made prior to it being proposed for the sporting regulations of upcoming the 2024-25 season.
It is understood that the outline of the idea is that at a random race weekend two race laps would be chosen, as the ‘golden laps’. A championship point will then be awarded to the leader of the relevant lap, communicated prior to the race weekend.
This means that the maximum of 31, rather than 29 points, could be up for the grabs for races that feature a potential ‘golden lap’ format.
At the moment, it is unclear if these plans will be mandated instead of the long-awaited fast-charging pitstop-based Attack Charge initiative. Formula E is keen to introduce it this season if the equipment proves to be reliable during testing.
Interestingly, there is a presumption that the ‘Golden Lap’ would be a fallback idea in case the Attack Charge is not deemed to be ready for in-race use, rather than being used additionally to the new pitstops.
When approched by The Race, Formula E declined to comment on the golden lap proposal.
The publication claims to have heard from several drivers about the proposed ‘Golden Lap’ idea. All requested to stay anonymous. However, one of their comments were that “we’re in a clown show even without this thing anyway”.
Another comment was the suggestion of the type of racing that would ensue as the drivers fight to lead those lap in a “peloton race” would be “like switching off air-traffic control at an airport”.
