Breaking: FIA Summons Mercedes Over P-L Procedure at Qatar Grand Prix…read More
FIA Summons Mercedes Over Pit-Lane Procedure at Qatar Grand Prix
Mercedes has been called in by the FIA ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix regarding a pit-lane procedure as Formula 1 heads into the penultimate event of the thrilling 2024 season. The race will take place at the Lusail International Circuit, which promises to be another exciting chapter in a season already packed with drama.
While the spotlight remains on Max Verstappen, who arrives in Qatar as a four-time world champion after securing the title in Las Vegas, attention is also focused on the intense battle for the constructors’ championship between McLaren and Ferrari. Heading into the final two races of the year, just 24 points separate the two teams, making this weekend’s race crucial for both camps.
In the midst of this high-stakes weekend, Mercedes has been summoned by Formula 1’s governing body to address a procedural matter. The FIA has requested that the team comply with a specific pit-lane regulation involving the positioning of one of their cars ahead of the race. As part of this procedure, George Russell’s car (Car 63) has been selected for inspection.
The FIA released a statement outlining the requirement, which is part of a regular pre-race process. According to the FIA, between 15:00 and 16:00 local time on Friday (12:00 and 13:00 GMT), one car from each team must be placed in its designated pit-stop position, while the other car should remain in the garage, available for further viewing. The FIA’s statement added that if only one car is equipped with new aerodynamic or bodywork components that haven’t been used in a previous race or during testing, it must be the car on display to the media.
This procedure allows journalists and photographers to get a closer look at the vehicles before the on-track action kicks off, providing them with an opportunity to take photos and record footage of any new technical updates or changes to the cars.
Alongside Russell’s Mercedes, the Alpine driven by Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon’s Williams have also been chosen by the FIA for presentation to the media. This selection is part of a routine inspection process that ensures all teams comply with the sport’s regulations and gives the media an inside look at the cars before the weekend’s competitive action begins.
Mercedes will be hoping to carry momentum from their impressive performance at the Las Vegas Grand Prix into Qatar. Last weekend, George Russell claimed his second win of the season, crossing the line first ahead of teammate Lewis Hamilton. Hamilton delivered a stunning drive after starting from 10th on the grid, managing to fight his way through the field to finish second.
This one-two finish marked a rare moment of triumph for Mercedes in what has otherwise been a difficult season. The Brackley-based team is set to finish fourth in the constructors’ championship after enduring a series of disappointing results earlier in the year. Despite their struggles, the team remains focused on finishing the season strong.
As Mercedes prepares for this weekend’s race in Qatar, the team will be aiming for another strong result to end the season on a high note. However, their fourth-place standing in the constructors’ championship is already confirmed, leaving them out of the fight for top honors. In contrast, McLaren and Ferrari are locked in a fierce battle for second place, adding extra excitement to the final two races.
While the race weekend is set to be action-packed on the track, the focus for now is on compliance with FIA regulations. The routine inspection of Mercedes’ car, along with those of other teams, underscores the importance of adhering to the sport’s strict rules and protocols.
As the Formula 1 season nears its conclusion, all eyes will be on Mercedes to see if they can continue their resurgence and challenge their rivals in the final races, while also ensuring they meet the FIA’s expectations in the pit lane.
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