Breaking:Haas F1 Team Calls for FIA Investigation After Be…read more

Haas F1 has officially requested a detailed explanation from the FIA regarding the controversial deletion of Oliver Bearman’s fastest lap in Q1 during the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix qualifying session. The team is also demanding new safeguards to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Incident

Bearman completed what looked like a strong lap that placed him in tenth position—enough to progress to Q2. However, just before he crossed the finish line at 16:32:20.9, a red flag was triggered due to a crash involving Williams reserve driver Franco Colapinto at 16:32:17.6. Because red flags are logged simultaneously in the system, Bearman’s lap was ruled invalid, and he dropped to eighteenth.

Haas’ Objection

Haas argues that video footage shows no red lights were visible at the finish line when Bearman crossed it. The red flag only appeared on his steering-wheel dash after he had already completed the lap. The team cites regulations stating red flags must be shown immediately at all marshal posts and on the start-line gantry. Haas claims that if visual signals lag behind the electronic system, drivers can’t be penalized fairly.

Team principal Ayao Komatsu called the decision “manifestly unfair” and stressed that drivers must have synchronized, visible signals to maintain trust in Race Control.

FIA’s Response

The FIA responded that Article 39.6 of the Sporting Regulations gives authority to the electronic red flag command, which is broadcast instantly to all cars and official systems. They maintain that whether the gantry light appears late is irrelevant. The FIA also claimed the start-line panel was red, but glare or camera angles might have made it hard to see on TV.

Haas’ Formal Request

Haas has asked the FIA for:

1. A precise timeline showing when the crash occurred, when Race Control sent the red flag, when all light panels changed, and when Bearman crossed the line;
2. Proposed safety improvements, such as faster LED lights or immediate dash alerts to ensure drivers see red flags instantly;
3. Clarification on appeal procedures.

The team could still file for a “Right of Review” if new evidence is presented within 14 days, though overturning such decisions is historically rare.

Wider Implications

Bearman missing Q2 likely cost Haas a chance at points, especially on a track where overtaking is tough. The case also revives concerns about F1’s reliance on electronic systems over driver visibility. Teams have previously pushed for a unified, high-speed light network, and Haas’ protest could accelerate those discussions.

Bearman’s Reaction

Bearman expressed frustration, saying the red flag appeared on his dash only after finishing his lap and implying that race control rarely changes decisions, even if replays suggest an error. While he looks ahead to Monaco, his experience might drive changes in how red flags are communicated during F1 sessions.