P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Lando Norris’s deleted-then-reinstated Chinese GP sprint pole lap reflects a variable F1 rule that isn’t actually part of the sporting regulations
Lando Norris had his best lap reinstated in qualifying for Formula 1’s sprint race at the Chinese Grand Prix because he did not gain an advantage with the track limits offence that got it deleted in the first place. Despite sliding into the gravel and having his lap deleted, Norris managed to secure pole position for the Shanghai sprint. The decision to reinstate his lap caused a divided reaction among fans and professionals. The FIA sporting regulations do not mandate deleting lap times for such offences in qualifying, as it depends on the race director’s event notes for each grand prix. The provision to delete laps is only added at specific circuits where gaining an advantage is more likely. In this case, Norris’s lap was reinstated as he did not gain an advantage from the track limits breach. Complexity arises when considering automatic deletion of the next lap if a driver exceeds track limits in certain circumstances.
