F1 EXPLAINS: The secrets of the Safety Car with driver Bernd Maylander

It's there to keep F1 safe, and it can transform a race. The FIA Safety Car is sent out in poor weather or after a crash to protect marshals, drivers and fans. But there's more to it than meets the eye…

In the latest episode of F1 Explains, hosts Christian Hewgill and Katie Osborne explore the secrets of the Safety Car: how the decision to use it is made, its purpose on-track and how drivers and strategists can gain an advantage when it is deployed.

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Safety Car driver Bernd Maylander stops by to discuss his job and the incredible AMG-Mercedes and Aston Martin he drives, before Christian climbs into the driver's seat to see the amazing kit the car has on-board.

To listen to the full episode, hit go on the audio player above – or click here to listen on your preferred podcasting platform.

And to get your questions answered, you can send a query about any F1 topic you fancy to F1Explains@F1.com. Our intrepid podcast team will then hunt down the best person in the paddock to give you the answer.

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All episodes of F1 Explains are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all other major podcast apps. New episodes are released every Friday.