F1 News: FIA Backtrack On Rule Change After Max Verstappen Complaints

The FIA has reversed a rule allowing pit lane overtaking at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix following driver complaints about safety

Following intense feedback from drivers, led by complaints regarding Max Verstappen's actions during practice, the FIA has reversed a recent rule change at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This decision comes after a brief period during which overtaking at the pit lane exit was permitted, raising safety concerns.

Key Takeaways:

• Immediate Rule Reversal: The FIA, responding to drivers' concerns, notably those related to Max Verstappen's driving during the second free practice session, reversed their decision on pit lane overtaking ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
• Safety Concerns Highlighted: Drivers, during a briefing post-practice, expressed their unease with Verstappen's approach of overtaking in the pit lane and then slowing down, a manoeuvre they deemed dangerous and potentially accident-prone.
• Temporary Adaptation: This reversal is a temporary measure for the Abu Dhabi weekend, following a recent allowance of overtaking in the pit lane under specific conditions, which now has been suspended.

The F1 racing scene witnessed a swift and significant rule change reversal by the FIA, influenced by feedback from the drivers, particularly concerning Max Verstappen's conduct. Just hours before the third practice session at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, an update announced the stopping of overtaking at the end of the pit lane, a rule briefly allowed under specific conditions.

Sky Sports reported that this change was initially introduced at drivers' request, aiming for a safer racing environment. However, during the second free practice, reigning world champion Max Verstappen's driving style sparked controversy. He overtook several drivers in the pit lane including George Russell and Lewis Hamilton, only to significantly reduce his speed once at the front. This action, especially Verstappen's abrupt slowing down, was met with disapproval from fellow drivers.

Concerns escalated during the post-practice drivers' briefing. According to Sky Sports, drivers labelled Verstappen's tactics as "dangerous" and indicative of an accident waiting to happen. Acknowledging these apprehensions, the FIA reverted to the original ruling, disallowing any overtaking in the pit lane for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, and potentially further into next season.

This decision marks a temporary shift in the FIA's approach to pit lane technique. Previously, they allowed overtaking provided slower cars stayed on the left, facilitating safer exits for faster cars. However, given the recent developments and heightened safety concerns, such manoeuvres will not be seen in Abu Dhabi this weekend.