Circuit atmosphere – an official signals a red flag. May 27, 2023. Formula 1 World Championship, Stage 7, Monaco Grand Prix, Monte Carlo, Monaco, Qualifying Day.
Carlos Sainz and George Russell led the call among the Formula 1 driver community for the FIA to penalize drivers who intentionally trigger red flags during the Monaco Grand Prix this weekend.
There is a historical precedent of unsportsmanlike conduct on the streets of Monaco, with the most notable case occurring during the qualifying session for the 2006 edition of the renowned race.
Michael Schumacher, in a battle with Fernando Alonso for pole position, intentionally stopped at Rascasse.
The German driver’s mistake was clear and he was subsequently demoted to the back of the grid. However, today’s drivers are urging the FIA to invalidate the laps of individuals they believe are continuously exploiting the system by causing interruptions on the narrow and twisty Monaco circuit.
“There have been clear cases on street circuits where, among us drivers, we have noticed individuals intentionally generating red flags,” Sainz said on Thursday.
“The FIA may not have been fully convinced that these incidents were deliberate, because, as drivers, we know what is intentional and what is not.
“So it will be interesting to see the approach they will take this weekend.
“The issue always arises in Monaco. I just hope that, for the sake of the spectacle and fair competition, we all come out in Q1 and Q3, giving our best without taking unnecessary risks.”
Unlike Schumacher, recent history has seen more questionable cases of drivers allegedly obstructing their competitors.
In 2022, Sergio Perez’s accident at Portier during Q3 prevented Max Verstappen from having a crucial opportunity to secure pole position.
Although never proven, the incident caused disruption within the Red Bull team, as Verstappen later retaliated in São Paulo, refusing to give up position on the track to his teammate.
Nevertheless, Perez was among the drivers advocating for the FIA to take action against individuals who intentionally cause disruptions for personal gain.
“I believe it is the appropriate course of action,” he stated. “We have been trying to address this issue in recent years, but it seems to continue without a solution.”
The question of how the FIA should penalize drivers deemed responsible for triggering interruptions during qualifying in Monaco was also a topic of discussion during the press conference held on Thursday.
“If I remember correctly, the FIA is currently examining this issue,” noted Esteban Ocon.
“We have recently discussed this in driver meetings, where it was proposed that drivers who cause a red flag be monitored.
“I believe this would be a sensible approach, considering we have witnessed cases in the past where certain drivers caused interruptions, preventing others from completing a lap. Yes, I think the FIA should monitor this.”
George Russell, director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, echoed Ocon’s sentiments: “I agree with Esteban. We often see laps excluded in qualifying due to track limits violations. If a driver causes a yellow or red flag, their best lap should probably be invalidated.”
A similar system has been implemented in IndyCar, where drivers have their times excluded from the classification records if they cause yellow or red flags. In the case of a yellow flag, one lap is excluded, while in the case of a red flag, the two best laps are invalidated.
Given the tight and narrow circuit of Monaco, an uninterrupted session is crucial in the battle for pole position. All drivers need as many laps as possible without interference from those trying to manipulate the system.
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Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen achieved an impressive victory at the Monaco Grand Prix this Sunday. Verstappen, from the Red Bull Racing team, led the race from the start and crossed the finish line in first place, securing his first victory at the Monte Carlo street circuit.
The race in Monaco is known to be one of the most challenging on the Formula 1 calendar, due to its narrow streets and tight corners. Verstappen demonstrated skill and determination in overcoming the obstacles and maintaining the lead throughout the race.
Verstappen’s victory is a significant achievement for Red Bull Racing, which has been seeking to compete on equal terms with the Mercedes team in recent years. With this victory, Verstappen also closes in on championship leader Lewis Hamilton from Mercedes in the overall standings.
In addition to Verstappen, other drivers also had notable performances in the Monaco race. Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc finished in second place, securing a podium at home for the Italian team. Meanwhile, Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas completed the podium in third place.
The next stage of the Formula 1 championship will be the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which will take place next weekend. It will be interesting to see if Verstappen will be able to maintain his winning momentum and continue challenging Hamilton in the title race.
Formula 1 continues to provide excitement and adrenaline to motorsport fans around the world. Don’t miss the upcoming races and follow closely the battle between Verstappen and Hamilton for the world championship.
