The Drivers VS the Safety Car

The F1 drivers and teams are scheduled to have meetings with race director Charlie Whiting a few days before the Spanish Grand Prix to consider an overhaul of the safety car rules.

After an Australian race marked by safety car interventions, teams and drivers once again expressed strong concerns about the closing of the pits at certain times. This situation can unfairly penalize drivers. In Melbourne, Heikki Kovalainen lost a place on the podium.

Some drivers also stated that there are other issues as the possibility of getting stuck in the pits is very real, with the red light prohibiting re-entry onto the track.

Discussions have already taken place with the FIA for a possible change to certain rules.

But with the Monaco and Canadian Grand Prix on the horizon, where the safety of the cars and drivers is even more important, the momentum to try to make changes has increased.

Mark Webber, member of the Grand Prix Drivers Association, confirmed that talks will conclude by the Spanish Grand Prix.

« It’s something we will discuss with Charlie Whiting in Barcelona, » said Webber.

« What happened in Melbourne is still difficult to understand. It is also very difficult for FIA delegates to avoid making mistakes. »

One of the solutions being considered would be the implementation of a slow speed limit around the area where the accident occurred.

Webber claimed that he believed changes were necessary for a better spectacle, but also for a fairer race for the drivers.

« As long as the safety car is on the track, we only need to ensure that our speed around the accident is maintained. »

« We just need to be cautious regarding yellow flags. »