Breaking News: Formula 1 changes rules to stop drivers driving too slowly in qualifying:
- Investigation for Slow Driving: Drivers who drive too slowly during qualifying will be investigated after the qualifying session. This is to ensure fairness and prevent drivers from gaining an unfair advantage by impeding others or manipulating track position.
- Pit Lane Maneuvering Prohibited: Last season, some drivers deliberately drove very slowly in the pit lane to create a large gap on the track. This tactic will now be prohibited, as it can disrupt the flow of qualifying and create unsafe situations on the track.
- New Requirement for Speed: Drivers must stay on or below the maximum time set by the FIA ECU (Electronic Control Unit) in each marshalling sector and at both the first and second safety car lines. This means drivers must maintain a reasonable pace throughout the qualifying session and cannot excessively slow down to manipulate track position.
- Definition of Marshalling Sector: A marshalling sector is defined as the section of track between each of the FIA light panels. This provides clarity on the specific areas where drivers must adhere to the maximum time set by the FIA ECU.
- Potential Consequences: Any driver who exceeds the maximum time set by the FIA ECU may be deemed to be going unnecessarily slowly. Incidents of slow driving will typically be investigated after the qualifying session, and appropriate action may be taken based on the findings.
- Pit Lane Included: The rule change applies not only to the track but also to the pit lane. This ensures that drivers maintain an appropriate speed in all areas of the circuit, promoting safety and fair competition.
- Clarification of Existing Regulations: This rule change does not supersede existing regulations regarding slow driving, such as Article 33.4 and Article 37.5 of the FIA Formula One Sporting Regulations, which apply to the entire circuit, including the pit lane.
- Immediate Enforcement: The rule change was prompted by incidents involving drivers like Max Verstappen last season.