Formula E: The High Risk of Hand Injuries

Formula E has established itself as the more environmentally conscious and smaller sibling to Formula One. However, just because the sport is more conscientious, doesn’t mean it’s better in every way. For Formula E drivers, there is a particularly high risk of hand injury when compared to other racing disciplines, even the higher-speed and equally open wheel sport of F1. In fact, hand injuries are the most frequent type of injury in Formula E.

The Severity of Hand Injuries in Formula E

While it is undoubtedly good news that broken hands are more common than other, more life-threatening types of injury, that doesn’t necessarily do justice to how gruesome they can be. Dutch driver Robin Frijn’s recent accident in Mexico is a good example of why this is actually a pressing issue. The ABT Cupra Formula E Team driver was involved in a relatively minor accident in the opening round of this season’s championship, when he suffered an injury that it took him eight weeks to recover from. The crash occurred on the opening lap of the Mexican E-Prix after running into the back of another car.

Frijns’ car made contact with the car ahead at the front left wheel, ripping the steering wheel out of his hand. He later described it as the worst injury as the worst in his career, adding that “the bone was sticking out of my hand, no fun.”

Why Hand Injuries are Common in Formula E

To date, there is no absolute certainty as to why hand injuries are the most common kind in Formula E. However, there are some theories, and it may ultimately come down to a combination of reasons.

Formula E cars don’t have power steering, which means that drivers have to work harder to turn the steering wheel than in some other motorsports. In addition, the electric cars happen to have a relatively high caster angle, which means that drivers experience between 15 lb-ft (20 Nm) and 26 lb-ft (35 Nm) of torque at the steering wheel. For comparison, F1 drivers only experience between 9 lb-ft (12 Nm) and 11 lb-ft (15 Nm) of torque, thanks to power steering.

On top of that, the steering ratio means that Formula E steering wheels can be turned more than F1 cars’. That means that, in an accident, the wheel will turn more, and transmit more torque to the driver’s hands while doing it.

Formula E mainly races on street circuits, making collisions more common. Despite that, Formula E’s co-founder, Alberto Longo has said that though the sport is looking into the phenomenon, there will be no adjustments to the racecars before season 11, which is set to take place in 2025.

Preventing Hand Injuries in Formula E

As hand injuries are a significant issue in Formula E, it is essential to take steps to prevent them. One way to do this is by strengthening the drivers’ hands and wrists. Drivers can do this by using hand grippers, wrist curls, and other exercises that focus on strengthening the muscles in their hands and wrists.

Another way to prevent hand injuries is by using gloves with extra padding. These gloves can help absorb some of the impact of an accident and reduce the risk of hand injuries.

Finally, it is essential to ensure that drivers are wearing the correct safety gear. This includes gloves that fit correctly and provide adequate protection for the hands.

Conclusion

While Formula E has established itself as a more environmentally conscious and smaller sibling to Formula One, it is not without its risks. Hand injuries are a significant issue in the sport, with drivers experiencing a higher risk of injury than in other racing disciplines. To prevent these injuries, drivers must take steps to strengthen their hands and wrists, wear gloves with extra padding, and ensure they are wearing the correct safety gear. With these precautions, drivers can reduce the risk of hand injuries and continue to compete safely in Formula E.