FIA forced to make rule changes on pitlane exit following Max Verstappen controversy at Monaco

Pitlane Exit Rules Revised by FIA in Response to Monaco Grand Prix Controversy

FIA forced to make rule changes on pitlane exit following Max Verstappen controversy at Monaco

Verstappen exiting the pits at Monaco Gp (credits: Insidesport.in)

The FIA, Formula One’s governing body, has modified its rules concerning crossing the pitlane departure line. This decision is in response to the controversy surrounding Max Verstappen at last year’s Monaco Grand Prix. The revised regulations define crossing the pitlane exit line more clearly, making it easier for drivers and teams to comprehend and obey.

Verstappen and his Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez were both seen crossing the pitlane exit line during the 2022 Monaco Grand Prix from the onboard cameras.   Following the race, Ferrari filed a protest, and the FIA stewards examined the situation. The stewards ultimately determined that neither driver had committed an offense, although this judgment raised questions among drivers concerning the definition of crossing the pitlane departure line.

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Drivers were previously not permitted to cross the yellow line at the pitlane exit. A modification in terminology in the International Sports Code for 2022, on the other hand, caused uncertainty and possible safety hazards. The amended language specified that a driver “must not cross” the line upon pit exit. Verstappen did not “cross” the line, according to the stewards, since his car did not have a full wheel to the left of the yellow line.

This interpretation of what crossing the line signified caused concern among drivers since it effectively gave them the green light to drift one wheel wide across the lines to protect positions if necessary. As a result of the substantial safety consequences, the FIA undertook discussions during the winter to rectify the situation. The FIA has now revised the International Sporting Code’s relevant appendix to clarify that crossing means that the outside of any tyre should not extend beyond the outside of the relevant line painted on the track. The FIA has also added these phrases to the section on pitlane entry lines, which drivers are not permitted to cross. The World Motor Sport Council accepted these changes this week, and they have notified teams and drivers ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix

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Explained: Pitlane Exit Line Rule Change

Drawing by FIA
Drawing by FIA (credits: motorsport.com)

To highlight what is considered acceptable, F1 race director Niels Wittich included a sketch in his pre-race Event Notes in Bahrain to show where the new limitations are. The illustration indicates that the outer edge of any tire should not extend beyond the outside of the line drawn on the track, indicating what is and isn’t permitted.

The FIA’s decision to alter the rules is welcomed news for drivers and teams who were previously confused about what crossing the pitlane departure line signified. This adjustment in phrasing will make it easier for all participants in the sport to comprehend and follow the regulations.

It is crucial to remember, however, that these limitations are in place for safety reasons. Crossing the pitlane exit line puts drivers in the path of other vehicles departing the pits, which may be risky. The new regulations spell out what is and isn’t permitted, but it is up to the drivers to obey them and protect their own and their fellow competitors’ safety.

Finally, the FIA has modified its regulations about crossing the pitlane departure line in order to clarify the definition of crossing and increase sports safety. The new regulations state unequivocally that the outer of any tire must not extend beyond the outside of the relevant track line. This change in terminology will make it easier for drivers and teams to comprehend and obey the regulations, guaranteeing everyone’s safety.

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