The FIA’s response to the controversy
A new controversy marked the Italian Grand Prix. While Ricciardo pulled over to the side to retire due to a technical issue, the intervention of the Safety Car until the end of the race raised the teams' objections to this decision. The FIA responded to this matter through a statement.
The Italian Grand Prix had all the ingredients to have a memorable end to the race. The circuit’s centenary anniversary, tributes, 75 years of Ferrari in front of their home crowd… All this celebration was spoiled by an incomprehensible decision from the stewards.
During the 47th lap, Daniel Ricciardo had to stop in the middle of Lesmo and retire. The Safety Car then intervened. It was thought that it would be there for 2-3 laps but ultimately the race ended under neutralization.
A choice that the teams do not understand, especially Ferrari, who could have played a dirty trick on Red Bull if the race had resumed.
We don’t understand why it took so long to release the cars between the safety car and the leader. There is no reason to wait for so long.
The FIA doesn’t back down.
Faced with criticisms from various teams, including Red Bull, who nonetheless took advantage to claim victory, the FIA promptly responded with a statement.
If all efforts have been made to quickly evacuate car #3 and resume the race, the situation has evolved and the stewards were unable to put the car in neutral and push it into the runoff.
« The safety of the evacuation operation being our only priority, and the incident not being significant enough to require a red flag, the race finished under the safety car regime, in accordance with the procedures agreed upon by the FIA and all competitors. The timing of the safety car period during a race has no impact on this procedure. »
The president of the FIA will meet with officials and team managers this Monday regarding this matter and the upcoming Grand Prix.
