P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The FIA has felt compelled to clarify a number of stewards’ decisions taken during a chaotic Qatar Grand Prix.
The FIA issued an explanation after the Qatar Grand Prix due to some unusual occurrences during the race, including a significant number of penalties given out by the stewards, one of which was a rare 10-second stop/go penalty for Lando Norris for not lifting under double-waved yellow flags. The decision not to neutralise the grand prix after a wing mirror fell off Alex Albon’s car caused criticism, as multiple laps passed before the safety car was finally deployed. The FIA defended Norris’ penalty, stating it was in line with their penalty guidelines and emphasizing the seriousness of double yellow flag infringements for safety reasons. Regarding the wing mirror incident, the FIA explained that the safety car was only deployed after extensive debris on the track and subsequent punctures necessitated it, as normal practice is not to deploy it for minor debris off the racing line. Additionally, the FIA addressed a malfunction of the safety car lights during the race, reassuring that despite the malfunction, all teams were informed verbally about the safety car’s return to the pits for the restart.
