Whiting warns drivers of Eau Rouge 'cheat loop'

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FIA race director Charlie Whiting has warned that drivers will not be allowed to gain an advantage by cutting Turn 4 at the top of Eau Rouge at Spa.

A detection device, officially called the 'Cheat Loop' and which triggers when a driver puts all four wheels off the track, has been placed behind the kerbs at Turn 4.

"Any lap completed during qualifying by leaving the track and cutting behind the apex of turn 4, as judged by the detection loop in this location, will be deleted by the stewards," Whiting wrote in a note sent to all teams and drivers.

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"On the third occasion of a driver cutting behind the apex during the race he will be shown a black and white flag, any further cutting will then be reported to the stewards.

"Each time any car cuts behind the apex teams will be informed via the official messaging system."

Several drivers were caught out yesterday running wide at Turn 4, prompting Whiting to remind everyone of the rules.

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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.