P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Following some controversial overtakes in the pit lane exit in Abu Dhabi on Friday, the FIA has intervened to ensure there isn’t a repeat during qualifying.
Following controversial incidents during Friday practice in Abu Dhabi, the FIA has banned overtaking in the pit lane exit for qualifying. The second practice session was disrupted by two red flags due to crashes by Carlos Sainz and Nico Hulkenberg. Sainz’s crash caused a 27-minute stoppage, cutting down running time for the drivers. Half of the competitors were new to the track as 10 substitute drivers participated in FP1. Max Verstappen of Red Bull was criticized for close moves on Mercedes drivers in the pit lane, leading to the FIA’s intervention. The updated regulations state that overtaking in the pit exit road is only allowed if a car has an obvious problem. However, this restriction will not apply during the Grand Prix.
