F1 2020: Key tips for a perfect start, what settings to use & more!


There are a number of key moments in a Formula 1 2020 race.

Besides nailing every apex and mastering how to deliver your power, one often overlooked moment is the start of the race.

So, without further ado, let’s jump into some tips and tricks to make sure you’re the first car getting to turn one, every time.

The Launch

The first step to a good start is your launch, which is achieved through a number of steps.

Firstly, we recommend keeping revs above 10k, optimally between 10.5k and 11.5k.

FIRST TO THE CORNER: A good launch will put you in a good position at Turn 1
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FIRST TO THE CORNER: A good launch will put you in a good position at Turn 1

This simply prevents your engine from lagging off the start, costing you precious time in a grid situation.

In the rain, your rev target will be lower, as there will be even less grip on the track.

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Try aiming for 8k to 9k revs in order to make sure that those tyres stay as planted as possible.

Be sure to not max the limiter. This can sometimes have the same effect, and also causes significant unnecessary wear to the engine!

Short Shifting

The next key to a successful race start is short shifting, which can be achieved when in manual gear mode.

The secret to short shifting is to get from standing still in first to moving in third as quickly as possible.

NO LIGHTY: Make sure your HUD is like this for short-shifting
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NO LIGHTY: Make sure your HUD is like this for short-shifting

The reason is quite simply to avoid unnecessary wheel spin, which could prove costly in a race start situation.

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In a race start, getting off the line is the most important thing, and that’s what short shifting aims to help with!

ERS Deployment

There are a number of opinions surrounding which ERS deployment to use at a race start.

DEPLOYMENT: Check your ERS deployment at race start!
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DEPLOYMENT: Check your ERS deployment at race start!

If you select Overtake, be sure to account for that extra 160bhp going through the rear tyres, as the chances of spinning are higher.

However, this will likely be your fastest route to turn one, as once in second (which is almost instantly) you could have a tremendous power advantage over your rivals.

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