P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Pitlane shenanigans price worth paying for qualifying solution, say F1 drivers
Since last season, the FIA has been working on avoiding dangerous scenarios of drivers encountering slow-moving cars during qualifying. Different ideas were tested, including a maximum delta time at marshalling posts at the Bahrain Grand Prix, which was abandoned due to difficulties. The current solution in Bahrain involves a maximum time for a full lap once cars leave the pits, leading drivers to seek gaps in the pitlane, sometimes causing complaints. While not ideal, F1 drivers find this approach safer than risking dangers on the track. Drivers like Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc believe slowing down in the pitlane is better than doing so on the track. Lando Norris mentioned the importance of avoiding slow cars at the final corner and appreciates the current system. Norris emphasized the need for refinement and adjustments to achieve the desired results. Oscar Piastri acknowledged that teams and drivers will always push the limits of the system in place, making it challenging when things go wrong.
