Why FIA banned F1 team personnel’s pitwall fence celebrations?
The FIA took this action to improve safety of the drivers and the team staff.
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Mercedes. Image via Independent.ie.
Formula 1 teams will not be allowed to celebrate their drivers taking the chequered flag by jumping on the pit wall fence hereafter. This has been a long tradition in the sport. This shocking move by the FIA ends the team staff waving at their drivers happily at the end of the races from the top of the fence. The rule comes into effect this weekend, at the Australian GP.
This decision by the FIA comes after the Jeddah celebrations. Team staff from Red Bull and Aston Martin climbed the lattice metal debris fencing, to celebrate Sergio Perez, Max Verstappen, and Fernando Alonso’s podium finish. They also climbed to the top of the pitfall debris fence at the Bahrain International Circuit. While this celebration is not new in Formula 1, the FIA disapproves.
As per F1 race director Niels Wittich’s safety notes, “it is forbidden to climb on pitwall debris fence at any time.” This was referenced to FIA’s International Sporting Code, Appendix H, Article 2.3.2. It further states, “Team personnel are only allowed in the pit lane immediately before they are required to work on a car and must withdraw as soon as the work is complete. It is forbidden for personnel to climb on pitwall debris fences at any time.”
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The FIA has reminded the F1 teams of the existing rules
“Any action by a team breaching this ban will be reported to the stewards.” The entire statement proves that it is not a new rule. However, it will now be enforced strictly. There will be severe consequences for the team members who do not abide by the regulations. It could be a fine or a penalty for the team. However, it is unlikely to impact a driver’s result.
The FIA has reminded the teams that climbing the debris fences is forbidden. Though this rule existed, it was not in effect for many years. The FIA deems it dangerous for team personnel to climb on top of the pit wall debris fence. There would be severe consequences if a person falls on the track when the cars are moving at high speed. The FIA does not want to endanger the team staff or the drivers.
The FIA is on a spree to remind the teams of existing rules. Last season, they enforced the ban on wearing jewelry and piercings while racing. According to the governing body of the sport, it is a safety-related issue. They also wanted the drivers to wear inner garments that adhered to the fireproof regulations. The F1 teams will have to face the wrath of the FIA if they do not follow the regulations.
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Sugantha Meena
(493 Articles Published)