FIA clamps down on Formula One pit wall celebrations at end of races
FIA clamps down on Formula One pit wall celebrations at the end of races… with teams risking PUNISHMENT – including hefty fines – if race crew fail to comply
- Scenes of celebration in Jeddah brought the issue to the FIA’s attention
- Pitwall celebrations are unlikely to be a problem at this weekend’s grand prix
- Melbourne’s Albert Park has thick glass plates instead of metal fencing
The FIA will crack down on Formula One constructors whose personnel climb the pit wall fences to celebrate their drivers passing the checkered fans, teams have been warned.
Race director at this weekend’s Australian Grand Prix, Niels Wittich, took time to remind the teams on Thursday that FIA rules stipulate that the pit wall debris fences cannot be climbed on ‘at any time’.
He also highlighted the article in the code which states that any team in breach of this ban will be reported to the race stewards.
The rule is found in Appendix H, Article 2.3.2 of the FIA International Sporting Code, but is not routinely observed.
Crew members who have taken part in such celebrations have become an iconic sight at grands prix around the world.
Raucous celebrations on the pit wall by Red Bull personnel flew in the face of FIA regulations
Aston Martin’s team had a lot to celebrate in Jeddah after Fernando Alonso claimed his second consecutive podium of the season
At the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah in March, crews from Red Bull and Aston Martin climbed the metal fences to celebrate the Austrian constructor’s 1-2 finish for Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen, and Fernando Alonso’s second consecutive podium for the British team.
Wittich’s announcement is unlikely to be directed at crews looking to repeat the celebration in Melbourne, as Albert Park has thick glass panels in place along the pit lane to give fans a better few.
Pit lane access is strictly detailed in the FIA’s code, which states that access the area is ‘exclusively reserved during practice and races for those persons specially authorised and having a specific job to do.’
Pit wall celebrations have become an iconic sight at race tracks around the world
The rules surrounding pitwall celebrations are likely to be adhered to if the punishment includes a fine for participating teams, with constructors more vulnerable under the current cost cap regulations.
Ahead of Sunday’s race, Red Bull have tightened their early lead in both the constructors and drivers championships after a strong showing in Saudi Arabia.
World champion Max Verstappen tops the table by a solitary point, with team-mate Perez nipping at his heels.
Verstappen denied his team-mate the opportunity to go level with him after winning the second race of the season after the Dutchman swiped the point for the fastest lap at the last.
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