F1 Explains: flashing lights, fast fixes + F1 engine customers

What do the red flashing lights on F1 cars mean? When do drivers attack and defend? How do F1 mechanics fix crashed cars so quickly? F1 Explains answers your questions after the first race of 2026.

F1 Correspondent and Presenter Lawrence Barretto joins Christian Hewgill to explain battery recharging, the way drivers are using Boost and Overtake modes, and what the new active aero front wings have in common with electric toothbrushes...

And, after Mercedes showed their speed in Australia, we look at how power unit manufacturers work with their customer teams.

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Send your questions to F1Explains@F1.com

F1 Explains + F1 Nation have teamed up for 2026
Find the latest race previews and reviews on this feed - 2026 Chinese GP Preview out now with Tom Clarkson and Jolyon Palmer

This week on F1 Beyond The Grid
Cadillac CEO Dan Towriss talks about launching the team