FIA updates regulation: ‘Verstappen-style impeding’ in pit lane prohibited. From Interlagos, those who stop in the pit lane will be penalized.

From Interlagos, those who stop in the pit lane will be penalized.
Max Verstappen introduced an extreme tactic in Singapore through a “stop” in the pit lane to create space on the out-lap while still adhering to the minimum time between the two Safety Car lines, a novelty introduced from the Italian Grand Prix in Monza.

This method was replicated by the Dutchman in Mexico and was under investigation, just like Fernando Alonso and George Russell, who did the same. When summoned by the stewards, Fernando Alonso, in front of the microphones, exclaimed: “If they penalize us, it’s a scandal; they should just tell us what we need to do.” Max Verstappen’s “defense” before going to the stewards was, “I didn’t do anything special; I just tried to create space between me and the cars in front of me.”

The three drivers were not penalized because the regulations did not have specific provisions on this matter. However, what Fernando Alonso called for, “they should tell us what we need to do,” has been heard by the FIA. In the supplementary notes to the regulations for the Brazilian Grand Prix, it has been specified that from this weekend at Interlagos, it will be prohibited to be an obstruction in the pit lane.

“Under Article 33.4 of the Formula 1 Sporting Regulations, drivers are not permitted to unnecessarily slow down, including stopping a car in the fast lane of the pit lane,” the FIA document states. “Drivers can create space between the traffic lights at the end of the pit lane and the Safety Car 2 line. Drivers wishing to utilize this area to create space must drive as far to the left as possible to allow other drivers to overtake them on the right side of the pit lane exit.” Of course, the reference to “left” is related to the Interlagos circuit, which is run counterclockwise. Everyone is now informed, so in today’s Qualifying, those who want to stop must do so after the traffic lights, leaving enough space for other drivers to overtake.

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