Hamilton Calls for AI to Improve F1 Steward Decisions
Lewis Hamilton has suggested that artificial intelligence (AI) could be used to improve the decision-making process of Formula 1 stewards. His comments come after the admission by the stewards of the Singapore Grand Prix that they made a mistake in giving Max Verstappen a reprimand for blocking Yuki Tsunoda in Q2.
Usually, impeding triggers a three-place penalty, so it was confusing for rival teams and drivers when Verstappen escaped with reprimands. Several teams spoke to the stewards to seek clarification on the decisions. In a team managers’ meeting in Japan last Friday, steward Matteo Perini admitted that the reprimand for the Tsunoda incident should have been a grid penalty.
Hamilton expressed his disappointment in the stewards’ mistake, saying, “That rule has been the same for ages, you know? I think we need to start looking into AI for this sort of thing, so we get good decisions.” When asked if he would like to see permanent stewards, Hamilton added, “I would like to see whether AI could do a better job or not.”
Hamilton’s Mercedes teammate, George Russell, also admitted to being confused by the original decision to give Verstappen a reprimand. He emphasized the need for consistency in steward decisions.
Carlos Sainz of Ferrari voiced his frustration, saying, “It’s just a shame that the guy that is dominating and winning pretty much every race is the only one that gets away with it, while all the others we’ve had penalties this year.”
The call for AI to improve decision-making in motorsports is not new. The use of technology to assist stewards in making accurate and fair decisions could potentially bring greater consistency to race penalties. However, implementing AI in such a complex and dynamic environment like F1 would require careful consideration and testing.
As the debate surrounding steward decisions continues, it remains to be seen if AI will play a role in improving the sport’s decision-making process. For now, F1 stewards will be under increased scrutiny to ensure fair treatment for all drivers.