Former Ferrari engineer believes “track engineers must communicate clearly”. Rob Smedley urges track engineers to be more direct and determined with drivers.

Rob Smedley, famous for his memorable radio messages to Felipe Massa during his years at Ferrari, believes that Formula 1 track engineers need to stop using vague language. During a time when radio communications were a novelty for F1 fans, Rob Smedley stood out with iconic instructions such as “Felipe, baby, stay cool” during the 2009 Malaysian Grand Prix. The following year, he delivered one of the most discussed phrases in recent history, “Fernando is faster than you,” ordering Felipe Massa to let Fernando Alonso pass at the German Grand Prix.

Although today race engineers no longer need to use codes or subtleties, Rob Smedley believes that many continue to avoid giving direct instructions to drivers, thus slowing down the decision-making process.

“Too much caution”: The communication problem
“In Formula 1, there is too much caution at the moment,” Smedley said in an interview with The Red Flags. “Tell them what you need to tell them without beating around the bush!” he added firmly, emphasizing that an uncertain attitude transmits weakness to the drivers. In his view, one should never convey insecurity or indecision, especially in a high-pressure environment like Formula 1.

“When my boss gives me an instruction, I follow it. That’s how the world works. We can’t let doubts or insecurities destabilize such a complex system.” Smedley believes it is crucial to establish clear rules for how engineers and drivers interact: “Radio communications must be direct, without fear of offending or hurting feelings.”

According to Rob Smedley, one of the main problems with today’s engineers is the fear of making unpopular decisions. “At the end of every race, there will always be only one happy driver.” Trying to please everyone, according to him, inevitably worsens situations.

Gianpiero Lambiase and Max Verstappen: an example to follow
Smedley praised Gianpiero Lambiase, Max Verstappen’s track engineer, calling him a role model for communication in Formula 1. “The relationship between Max and GP is exceptional. Lambiase tells him things as they are, and Verstappen responds without hesitation.”

One aspect that Smedley particularly appreciates is Lambiase’s ability to call the driver out when necessary. “Sometimes drivers act like sociopaths and forget how hard the team works for them. Gianpiero Lambiase asked Max to apologize to the guys in the garage, and I did the same during my career. Their communication reflects their relationship. When there’s mutual trust, you can speak to each other without unnecessary formalities.”