F1 drops 'Verstappen rule'

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Formula 1 has dropped the "Verstappen rule" which sought to ban drivers from moving under braking.

The rule came into force last season following a series of controversial on-track maneuvers by Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who was heavily criticized by a series of senior drivers.

The FIA has now decided to implement a general rule covering potentially dangerous driving, considering it a better way of policing close-racing incidents.

FIA race director said however that each incident would be considered on its merits.

"Before we said any move under braking would be investigated," Whiting said.

"Now, we have a simple, broad rule that says effectively if a driver moves erratically or goes unnecessarily slowly or behaves in a manner that could endanger another driver then he will be investigated."

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Whiting said the rule was instigated by the teams which advocated a slightly more forgiving approach to judging racing incidents.

Whiting said that drivers would be officially informed of the new guidelines and changes at their usual briefing after Friday's practice sessions at Albert Park.

"If they leave it up to us the positive is we can sort it out on track. I like being able to race," said Red Bull's Daniel Ricciardo.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.