Formula One could be getting ready to axe the blue flags, as the FIA confirms that it will be on the upcoming list of topics to discuss at the next F1 meeting. However, it would be difficult to pass the decision through the teams.
Blue flags are shown to slower backmarker cars when the race leader or cars on the lead lap are close behind. The driver shown the blue flag has an obligation to allow the car behind to overtake. While one of the main purposes of the blue flag system is safety, it also helps to prevent slower cars from hindering a battle between leading cars, as it reduces the difficulty when overtaking traffic.
Charlie Whiting has reportedly admitted that the elimination of the blue flag system is up for discussion, but it will be hard to get support from the teams. The teams get to vote on regulation changes and without the necessary support, the changes won’t be made. Whiting has speculated that less than half of the teams would support the idea.
The goal is likely to tighten the gap between the leading cars by making it more difficult to overtake the slower traffic. Traffic already plays a big factor in battles, as the slower traffic slows the leading car and allows the other cars to catch up. Having no blue flag system could increase the factor of traffic in a battle.
Some other racing series, such as NASCAR, don’t have any kind of blue flag system. However, there have been many occasions in which slower backmarkers have been the cause of an accident that ruined the race for the leading cars. Formula One would be vulnerable to similar situations if the blue flags are abolished.
