No more battles in Formula 1: the FIA is gentler with the drivers!
After several controversies this season, notably in Canada and Austria, there are now more wheel-to-wheel battles between drivers as well as more frequent on-track contacts, much to the delight of spectators. The FIA's policy seems to be to penalize Formula 1 drivers less.
This has not escaped the attention of Formula 1 fans. For several Grand Prix races, we’ve seen exciting battles on the track between drivers. A fierce struggle is unfolding between the leading teams for victory, but also between the midfield drivers. And this is not by chance. Indeed, the FIA has decided to give drivers more freedom to fight on the track. Just a few months ago, drivers were penalized when there was a collision. Today, these collisions we might see are classified as racing incidents, and drivers are therefore not penalized.
This relaxation of the rules aims to enhance battles between drivers. One of the actions implemented by the FIA to penalize drivers less is the return of the black and white flag. Indeed, after discussions with the teams, it was officially reintroduced at the Belgian Grand Prix this year. This flag should be considered by the drivers as equivalent to a yellow card in football, according to Formula 1 race director Michael Masi. Its purpose is to warn the driver of unsporting behavior instead of penalizing them.
Direct consequence of this freedom granted, drivers are more aggressive and take more risks during their overtaking attempts. As Romain Grosjean mentions on Canal+, “I felt that the first laps in the last races were overall quite aggressive.” This black and white flag gives an advantage to the drivers. Before, the only way the FIA had was to penalize drivers to warn them, whereas now, drivers know they can be bolder because they will be cautioned before receiving a sanction. This promises exciting races and spectacle in the upcoming Grand Prix.
