Human error led to a brief activation of "overtake mode" during the first sprint qualifying session of the Singapore Formula One Grand Prix. Race control staff belatedly reactivated the mode for 27 seconds before switching it off for the remainder of the session.
The incident followed a red flag caused by Cadillac driver Sergio Perez crashing into a barrier. Overtake mode provides drivers with extra power, and its temporary activation benefited some drivers who were setting a lap time at the end of the session.
Carlos Sainz voiced his frustration, stating that "half of the cars did the lap with half a second quicker engine than the others." He added, "There was another software issue with the cars this time around and we were on the bad end of it."