FIA Enforces Late Rule Change Ahead of Miami Grand Prix Following Verstappen Incident
Ahead of the highly anticipated Miami Grand Prix, the FIA has implemented a crucial rule change in response to a controversial incident involving Max Verstappen during the Australian Grand Prix. The modification comes just days before the race and is aimed at preventing a repeat of the confusion that unfolded earlier this season.
During the Australian Grand Prix, Verstappen was nearly compromised when rookie driver Ollie Bearman, after un-lapping himself under a safety car period, pitted and then rejoined the track ahead of Verstappen. This sequence, which occurred due to the rules allowing cars to un-lap themselves and pit, led to unnecessary complications and raised safety concerns within the Red Bull team.
To address this, the FIA has updated Article 55.14 of the sporting regulations. Under the new change, race control now has the authority to close the pit exit during safety car periods if the safety car train is passing. This move is designed to prevent cars rejoining from the pits from interfering with the race leaders or the integrity of the safety car train.
In addition to the rule tweak, the FIA also shortened two of the three DRS zones in Miami, aiming to balance overtaking opportunities. However, the decision has been met with criticism from drivers like Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, who argue that it makes overtaking even more difficult on a track already considered challenging.
Off the track, Verstappen missed the media day in Miami after the birth of his first child with partner Kelly Piquet. The reigning world champion has since arrived in Miami and is expected to compete in the weekend’s events.
The rule change highlights the FIA’s commitment to ensuring safety and fairness as Formula 1 continues
to evolve.
