Formula 1: Risk Versus Reward

The world of motor sports fascinates and terrifies spectators at the same time. This is one of the main reasons why so many people love to watch Formula 1 races. The same can be said for NASCAR races. Even though most people will not readily admit it, crashes are an exciting part of the competition. That said, these accidents do not come without serious consequences. Some drivers lose limbs, suffer from brain damage, or die. When this happens, a black cloud takes shape over the sport. However, the sport lives on because the love and enthusiasm for it has not waned.

French Formula 1 driver Jules Bianchi is a prime example for how dangerous Formula 1 driving can be. On October, 5th, 2014, Jules was involved in a serious accident during the japanese Grand Prix. The race was held through frequent rainfall, and this made conditions extremely dangerous. Once he spun out of control, he ended up hitting a tractor crane head-on. He ended up suffering a severe head injury, and subsequent surgeries have been conducted to reduce swelling in his brain. He is still in a medically-induced coma to this day. This is a prime example of what can happen to you, even under the best of weather conditions.

Most drivers, especially those who are French, understand how to balance the risks in order to achieve a great result. Risk-taking is a major part of the game, and must take place in order to be successful. However, when driving a car that exceeds 170 km/hr, there is very little room to make a mistake. One small mistake can be fatal, and it might cost the life of another driver in the process. This careful balancing act is controlled through careful car preparation. Teams go through all of the safety features, and they test them before allowing their driver to take part in the circuit. Regulations designed by Formula 1 keep drivers as safe as possible.

Practice time plays a huge role when it comes to becoming a faster, and safer, driver. This time allows drivers to understand the ways in which their car should handle through the various turns. Road courses are actually some of the most dangerous because they have various turns that you must navigate with precision and skill. Practice runs take the guesswork out of the equation altogether. Serious drivers practice to find any mechanical issues before they have a chance to fester and cause serious issues for everyone else.

Formula 1 racing will always be dangerous. Those who have participated in the sport for many years understand this fact, as many of them have been in an accident at some point. Knowledge is the key to survival, especially if the care loses control. Drivers who panic often make the situation much worse in the process. Preparation keeps more drivers out of the hospital, and inside the cockpit of their race cars. Formula 1 racing will continue to thrive as more drivers exercise good judgement.