P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Several Formula 1 drivers commented on the FIA’s attempts to govern qualifying delta times after a proposed system was rejected
During recent qualifying sessions, the issue of traffic in the pit-lane exit and drivers impeding one another on track prompted the FIA to revise the maximum delta time rule. The initial rule required drivers to stay on or below the set time in each sector and safety car lines, but it was rejected by drivers after testing. Instead, drivers were instructed to stay below 1:54.0 between specified safety car lines to prevent unnecessary slow driving. McLaren’s Lando Norris expressed his preference for the old system, highlighting the need for refinement. His teammate, Oscar Piastri, acknowledged the strengths and weaknesses of the new system, emphasizing the subjective nature of penalties. While George Russell exceeded the delta time without punishment, front-row qualifiers Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc supported the new delta system for safety reasons, despite its imperfections.
