Every driver has a unique set of tools and tricks in their arsenal, and Romain Grosjean is no exception. The 38-year-old driver has a clever method of using the drink button on his steering wheel, even when there’s no drink in the car, to provide data points for debriefs.
During offseason testing, Juncos Hollinger Racing team members observed Grosjean repeatedly hitting the button despite not having a drink in the car. They learned that he uses it to analyze corners on each lap and give detailed feedback to the engineers for better setups.
This approach has helped Grosjean achieve five top-10 finishes, including a fourth-place finish at Laguna Seca, as well as two Fast Six appearances with the team.
Grosjean explained, “The drink button, when there’s no drink, serves as a mark on the data, making it easier for the engineer to pinpoint specific areas during debriefs. It helps in identifying issues and discussing them in detail.”
Grosjean doesn’t recall exactly when he started using this concept, but he believes it originated during his Formula 1 career. He has carried this practice into his IndyCar journey, where he aims to simplify his feedback process.
When asked if it’s a common practice among European drivers, Grosjean responded, “It depends on the team, but I try to make my life easier whenever possible.”
Some drivers may adopt Grosjean’s method, and he welcomes the recognition. He believes in sharing knowledge and helping others improve their performance.
Grosjean demonstrated the button hack to JHR, who found it to be a valuable resource for future races. He emphasized the importance of continuous learning in sports and the value of experience in improving performance over time.
Overall, Grosjean’s innovative approach to utilizing the drink button for data analysis has proven to be a beneficial strategy for enhancing his performance on the track.
Romain Grosjean, Juncos Hollinger Racing Chevrolet
Photo by: Geoffrey M. Miller / Motorsport Images
