FIA recognizes “procedural problems” in crane intervention at Suzuka

In the deluge of the first laps of the last Japanese Grand Prix, Pierre Gasly was quite frightened. Then set off at high speed to catch up with the peloton, the Norman had crossed a crane in the opposite direction on his way while the red flag had just been waved. On the radio, the pilot Alpha Tauri had expressed immense anger to the race management. Immediately after the finish, the FIA ​​took up the matter and confirmed the opening of an investigation to find out the reasons for the presence of said crane on the track at that precise moment.

« Although it is normal to evacuate cars under safety car and red flag regime, due to the particular circumstances and taking into account the comments of a number of drivers, the FIA ​​has launched an in-depth review of the events involving the deployment of recovery vehicles during the Japanese Grand Prix, advanced the Federation. It is part of standard practice to debrief and analyze all racing incidents to ensure continuous improvement of processes and procedures."

First response from the FIA ​​regarding the crane

During the last World Motorsport Council, held on October 19, the famous affair of the Japanese Grand Prix crane was discussed. Less than two weeks after the events, the FIA ​​was able to provide a first element of response. The latter recognized procedural problems in the intervention of the vehicle concerned and committed to publishing a full report soon.

« As reported immediately after the race, the FIA ​​has undertaken an in-depth analysis of the incidents which took place during the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka, can we read in the report of the World Motor Sport Council. Procedural problems have been identified and will be corrected in the short and medium term. The findings will be made public in the coming days. » The FIA ​​will have to determine in particular whether it entered the track with the authorization of the race direction or whether the stewards acted of their own free will.

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