The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has issued an official decision in response to a request submitted by Red Bull Racing after the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix qualifying session at Imola. While the specific details of Red Bull’s request have not been disclosed, the FIA confirmed that the matter has been reviewed and addressed accordingly.
The qualifying session was notably disrupted by two significant incidents. Red Bull driver Yuki Tsunoda suffered a high-speed crash at the Villeneuve chicane during Q1, resulting in his car flipping and sustaining substantial damage. Fortunately, Tsunoda emerged unscathed and was cleared by medical personnel.
Shortly after, Alpine’s Franco Colapinto crashed at the Tamburello chicane, leading to another red flag. This incident affected several drivers’ qualifying laps, including Haas driver Oliver Bearman, who had his lap time deleted for allegedly completing it after the red flag was displayed. Bearman contested the decision, asserting that no red flag was visible on his dashboard or trackside when he crossed the finish line. The FIA later clarified that the red flag was activated 3.2 seconds before Bearman completed his lap, justifying the deletion.
The FIA’s decision regarding Red Bull’s request underscores the governing body’s commitment to maintaining fairness and safety in the sport. As the season progresses, teams and drivers continue to navigate the challenges presented by intense competition and the ever-evolving dynamics of Formula 1 racing.
