Abu Dhabi GP gets new rule about overtaking in pitlane after Max Verstappen’s insane move during Free Practice

Max Verstappen performed an outrageous move on his rival Lewis Hamilton while the two were still in the Pitlane. The Abu Dhabi organisers have instated a new rule following the incident.

Abu Dhabi GP gets new rule about overtaking in pitlane after Max Verstappen’s insane move during Free Practice

Max Verstappen (via imago)

The iconic 2021 season concluded at the iconic Yas Marina street circuit Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen fighting it out for the ultimate glory. As the pair revisit the circuit for the last Grand Prix of the season, yet another pass from the Red Bull driver on the Mercedes man triggers a major rule change.

Max Verstappen, on the opening day of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, appeared to be impatient in the Pitlane exit. As viewers of the sport might already be aware, the Pitlane exit at the fabled street circuit is known to be quite lengthy and thus demands a lot more time from the drivers than on other circuits. Verstappen, after testing his patience, decided to overtake the cars ahead of him as he navigated his way onto the racetrack. This took place during the disrupted FP2 session, among the several cars passed by Verstappen, the Mercedes pair quickly became the highlights.

YouTube video

Following the incident, The stewards quickly posted a new rule that prohibits overtaking in the pit lane at Abu Dhabi. It is reported that the rule is currently only instated at the Yas Marina circuit and is expected to be instated amongst the other common rules throughout the race calendar next season. Verstappen, on the other hand, was later asked about his motivations that led to the overtakes.

FS Video
They have to get out of the way, They're all driving slowly and I just wanted to get out there because we didn't have much time. They keep driving in the middle and when I try to pass them they cut me off.
Max Verstappen made a snarky comment, as reported by RacingNews365.

Nico Rosberg reacted to Max Verstappen’s spicy comments about the Las Vegas Grand Prix

The much-anticipated inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix opened out to be a disappointing affair, failing to meet the high expectations set for the 2023 F1 calendar. The weekend faced setbacks, beginning with the cancellation of the FP1 session due to safety oversights. Spectators, who had invested in expensive tickets, were then abruptly asked to leave the grandstands before the delayed FP2 session, receiving only a $200 merchandising voucher as compensation.

Max Verstappen (via imago)
Max Verstappen (via Imago)

Throughout the ordeal, Max Verstappen openly criticized the FIA and other organizers, expressing his discontent with the Las Vegas GP. This drew mixed reactions from F1 executives, with some expressing disdain for the World Champion’s comments. Former champion Nico Rosberg also weighed in, acknowledging the need for drivers to engage with sponsors and fans, recognizing their role in supporting the sport. 

We have to accept that we need to dedicate some time to give back to sponsors and give back to fans because they’re the ones who pay our salaries.

The Las Vegas GP, despite its initial hype, ended up highlighting organizational issues that marred the overall experience for both participants and fans alike. While Verstappen’s remarks provided entertainment for global viewers, they raised concerns among paddock members and executives. The sport’s most prominent figure and reigning World Champion openly criticizing its management created a challenging image for Formula 1.