FIA Admits Error in Not Issuing Black-and-White Warning Flag to Max Verstappen in Austrian GP
In a significant development, the FIA has acknowledged that Max Verstappen should have been given a black-and-white warning flag for moving under braking during the Austrian Grand Prix, a move that could have prevented a late-race collision with Lando Norris.
“When defending, there must be no change in direction by the defending car, after the deceleration phase has commenced, except to follow the racing line,” according to the FIA’s Driving Standards Guidelines.
Despite this, no action was taken against Verstappen at the time, sparking controversy. However, following a post-event review, the FIA has conceded that a black-and-white warning flag should have been issued to Verstappen, especially considering the updated rules for the 2024 season.
FIA Discusses Matter with Team Managers
Formula 1 race director Niels Wittich discussed the matter with team managers at the British Grand Prix, explaining that the FIA’s internal review concluded that a warning should have been given to Verstappen. The black-and-white flag, which is no longer limited to unsportsmanlike behavior, can now be used to caution drivers for actions that may result in a penalty if repeated.
McLaren Welcomes FIA’s Admission
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella welcomed the FIA’s admission, stating that it confirms their initial assessment of the incident. “We are happy because I think the FIA have expressed their opinion around what happened in Austria, and we are satisfied that this opinion confirms that our understanding straight after the race was correct, and during the race to some extent,” Stella said.
The FIA’s acknowledgement of the error is a significant development in the world of Formula 1, and it will be interesting to see how this affects the sport moving forward. In the meantime, Verstappen will be keen to put the incident behind him as he looks to continue his championship charge.
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