Verstappen Ready to Adapt as FIA Reviews Driving Rules

Verstappen Ready to Adapt as FIA Reviews Driving Rules

27/10/2024

Max Verstappen remains open to adapting as drivers and FIA engage in productive discussions on refining track limits and driving regulations.

The drivers are set to discuss with the FIA matters concerning on-track battles, adherence to track limits, and potential modifications to the contentious apex rule. Carlos Sainz welcomes the federation’s willingness to engage with the drivers and teams on these topics.

“I believe the meeting was positive and productive. Many drivers voiced their opinions on each situation and what we think is the best way forward,” the Ferrari driver noted.

“Yes, the way you interpret the rules and the driving guidelines the stewards will use to apply penalties, those remain the same for this weekend, and I believe they will likely be enforced in the same manner.”

“But, yes, I think the meeting was productive, and I believe that in Qatar, we will have solutions that, hopefully, will provide a better understanding for the drivers and improve the racing overall. I hope it will be better.”

When asked about his views on the upcoming changes, Max Verstappen made it clear he would comply with any new regulations: “I think Carlos explained it perfectly. If there are new rules, I will adapt, as always. There’s no need for concern.”

For Charles Leclerc, it is crucial to see that the drivers are open to changes to achieve clearer rules: “I won’t go into the specifics of what was discussed inside, but we are all ready to improve some of the scenarios we saw in Austin.”

“Because I don’t think we were all aligned on that. However, the FIA has been very open to discussion, and I think they have acknowledged that some changes are needed.”

“In the future, we will try to help them make better decisions and to have circuits that perhaps do not allow as much controversy as Austin. Because if there is a gravel trap or a kerb in certain corners, it would make life easier for everyone, but that’s just the way it is.”

Lando Norris points out that a rule already exists against Verstappen

It’s said that this initial preliminary meeting between the drivers was heated, particularly between Lando Norris and Verstappen, with the Briton criticising his rival’s tactics: “Max wouldn’t have been ahead of me at the apex if he had braked properly and stayed on the track.”

“Many other drivers and teams disagreed with his driving as well. Some pointed out that the rule prohibiting forcing another driver off the track could still apply in such cases. Even though the guidelines are in place today, it shouldn’t be allowed to force another driver off the track.”

“In other words, there is a clear and demonstrable distinction between taking a corner in an acceptable manner and approaching a corner with the primary intention of pushing another driver off the track.”

“In the end, it’s understood that the rules will never be perfect. The aim is to strengthen the wording and try to better define the guidelines. Let’s see what the FIA brings forward to address this situation.”

The president of the Drivers’ Association, Alex Wurz, has also shared his perspective. The Austrian believes that the FIA still needs to improve the consistency of its decisions: “We appreciate having a conversation aimed at making decisions more consistent.”

“There is already some consistency, but collectively we see room for improvement. No one wants to see too many rules, and we all want to see good racing. The general sentiment is that we will improve the guidelines for 2025.”

Productive Talks Signal Change in FIA Track Limit Rules

Productive Talks Signal Change in FIA Track Limit Rules Productive Talks Signal Change in FIA Track Limit Rules

F1 Standings 2025
F1 Standings 2025
#
Driver
Points
1
Driver Flag
Max Verstappen
Red Bull
0
2
Driver Flag
Lando Norris
McLaren
0
3
Driver Flag
Charles Leclerc
Ferrari
0
4
Driver Flag
Oscar Piastri
McLaren
0
5
Driver Flag
Carlos Sainz
Williams
0
6
Driver Flag
George Russell
Mercedes
0
#
Team
Points
1
McLaren
Norris & Piastri
0
2
Ferrari
Leclerc & Hamilton
0
3
Red Bull
Verstappen & Lawson
0
4
Mercedes
Russell & Antonelli
0
5
Aston Martin
Alonso & Stroll
0
6
Alpine
Gasly & Doohan
0
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Australian
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16 Mar
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Shanghai International
23 Mar
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Suzuka Circuit
6 Apr
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Bahrain
Bahrain International
13 Apr
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Saudi Arabian
Jeddah Street
20 Apr
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