Mashable: Formula One's governing body is testing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to address track limit violations during the upcoming Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking a significant step in enhancing race management. The FIA, based in Paris, plans to employ 'Computer Vision' technology, utilizing shape analysis to determine the number of pixels crossing the track edge.

This AI system aims to distinguish genuine breaches, where drivers cross the white line at the track's edge with all four wheels, streamlining the workload for the FIA's remote operations centre (ROC) and expediting response times.

The Austrian Grand Prix on July 2 witnessed a surge in potential violations, with around 1,200 cases requiring processing by just four individuals. Despite efforts, some breaches went unpunished at the U.S. Grand Prix in Austin in October. Stewards expressed dissatisfaction, stating that addressing track limit violations at turn six was "completely unsatisfactory" and called for a solution before the next season.

Tim Malyon, the FIA's head of remote operations and deputy race director, drew parallels with the application of Computer Vision technology in the medical field, particularly in analyzing data from cancer screening. He emphasized that the goal is not to diagnose cancer but to use AI to eliminate 80% of cases without cancer, allowing experts more time to focus on the remaining 20%.

Malyon highlighted that integrating Computer Vision would decrease the number of potential infringements considered by the ROC, resulting in fewer cases reaching race control for further action.

In addressing the evolving landscape of race management, Malyon emphasized the need to expand facilities, invest in software, and remain open to new technologies. He acknowledged the current strength of human judgment in certain areas but emphasized the potential of real-time automated policing systems as the future of race regulation.