In the electrifying second half of the 2023 season finale at the Yas Marina Circuit, some of Formula 1’s biggest names found themselves under the scrutiny of the race stewards. Lewis Hamilton and Pierre Gasly, among others, were flagged for a potential pitstop infringement. Joining them in the investigative spotlight were Max Verstappen, as well as Williams’ duo of Logan Sargeant and Alex Albon, along with Alfa Romeo’s Zhou Guanyu.
The FIA stewards declared that they would delve into the matter post the heart-pounding 58-lap race. Upon closer examination, it was revealed that these pitstop infractions were connected to concerns over the pitcrew not wearing the required eye protection during a pit stop.
Post-race, the FIA stewards convened with all the team managers to discuss this breach of the rules.
Following a thorough investigation and a careful hearing of the involved parties, the stewards decided not to impose any penalties. Their decision was based on the notion that the evidence presented was, in some cases, not sufficiently clear to definitively establish rule breaches. Nevertheless, all teams were reminded emphatically that the “safety of team members is paramount.”
The stewards’ report concluded with a stern reminder to all teams: “All teams are requested to stress the importance of eye protection for all personnel working on a car and ensure that this Article is respected by all team members in the future.”
Abu Dhabi’s Formula 1 race holds a unique position on the calendar, commencing under a setting sun and concluding under the shroud of complete darkness. This distinctive setting poses unparalleled visibility challenges for both drivers and pitcrew, making the selection of visor tints a more intricate task than usual. It is plausible that some pitcrew members may have momentarily lifted their protective visors during the second set of pitstops as visibility in the pitlane dwindled.
The season finale was a masterclass by Max Verstappen, who claimed his 19th victory out of 22 races in the 2023 season. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc secured second place, ahead of Mercedes’ George Russell. Sergio Perez, in the second Red Bull, initially crossed the line in second place but was later penalized by five seconds for a clash with McLaren’s Lando Norris, relegating him to fourth. Norris finished fifth, with his teammate Oscar Piastri following closely behind.
In the high-stakes world of Formula 1, every detail counts, including the safety measures in the pitlane. While the teams escaped penalties this time, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present importance of safety in the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about pitcrew safety
Q: What were the pitstop infringements investigated during the Abu Dhabi GP?
A: The pitstop infringements investigated during the Abu Dhabi GP involved concerns that the pitcrew may not have been wearing the required eye protection while working on the cars.
Q: Were any penalties imposed on the F1 teams for these infringements?
A: No, the FIA stewards decided not to impose any penalties on the F1 teams involved. They cited that in some cases, the evidence presented was not clear enough to definitively establish rule breaches.
Q: What action did the stewards take after the investigation?
A: Following the investigation and discussions with team managers, the stewards emphasized the importance of eye protection for all pitcrew members and requested that all teams ensure strict adherence to this safety measure in the future.
Q: Why is the Abu Dhabi GP unique in Formula 1?
A: The Abu Dhabi GP is unique in Formula 1 because it starts under a setting sun and concludes under complete darkness. This unique setting presents distinct visibility challenges for both drivers and pitcrew due to changing light conditions.
Q: Who won the 2023 season finale at the Abu Dhabi GP?
A: Max Verstappen emerged victorious in the 2023 season finale at the Abu Dhabi GP, securing his 19th win out of 22 races in the season.
More about pitcrew safety
- Formula 1 Official Website
- 2023 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Race Results
- FIA Stewards Decisions (Official FIA Stewards’ Decisions)
- Yas Marina Circuit
- Max Verstappen’s 2023 Season Performance
- McLaren F1 Team
- Formula 1 Safety (Official Formula 1 Safety Information)
2 comments
Pitcrew gotta wear eye protect, duh! Abu Dhabi race’s wild with sun and dark, need ’em shades.
Max killin’ it with 19 wins! Safety’s key tho, good reminder for all teams.