Esteban Ocon Compares Bizarre F1 Software Glitch to 'Windows Restart'

The formation lap of the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang circuit in Malaysia experienced a major issue due to an FIA software glitch. After already being delayed by an hour due to heavy rain, the race began its formation lap under the Safety Car. Wet conditions required teams to load software parameters to manage the torque delivery of the lowered 350kW 50/50 hybrid power units. As this scenario had never been tested prior to this first true wet race, a multitude of cars ended up slowing down, with some coming to a complete stop.

Cars were forced to return to the pits, causing an additional 40-minute delay while the FIA hastily created and distributed a software update that fixed the anomaly. Esteban Ocon was among the affected drivers, reporting that his throttle stopped working. After the race, Ocon humorously explained that he turned off the car and did a 'restart Windows,' which successfully brought everything back to normal.

Ocon continued to see the funny side of the incident, comparing the low-speed first-gear running to a pre-British GP Lego go-kart race at Silverstone. He noted that the situation reminded him of battling Fernando for the victory during that go-kart event.

Despite enjoying a competitive early phase of the race, Ocon began falling down the order after pitting for fresh tyres. He ultimately finished in 15th place, one position behind his Haas teammate Oliver Bearman.