There was widespread surprise in the Formula 1 paddock on the opening day of testing in Barcelona. The intention had been to keep all lap times strictly confidential, yet the moment the pit lane went green, timings began circulating online. So how did that happen?

A live YouTube stream quickly emerged showing real-time lap times — along with a wealth of additional data.

That raised eyebrows, given that the test was deliberately held behind closed doors to avoid exactly this kind of exposure. Teams were keen to conduct their programmes away from the spotlight, without scrutiny or speculation based on headline lap times.

Alpine is also in action this Monday in Barcelona – Photo: Alpine

Formula 1 rights violated

That hope has proven futile. Teams and Formula 1 alike are surprised to see a YouTube channel covering the test, complete with an accurate timing page. Since Formula One Management (FOM) is not tracking times and laps in Barcelona, everyone is wondering who is leaking this and how it’s happening.

Given that FOM is extremely protective of its rights, it’s highly likely they are seeking answers to those two questions. For now, fans can at least view the timing; we’ll have to wait and see if that remains possible for the rest of the week.

GPblog is deliberately not sharing the link to the page, as this website is FIA-accredited. As a result, we are required not to show or link to unauthorized images of F1.

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