F1 News, Reports and Race Results

FIA changes its stance on Magnussen blocking move in Japan

In a rare case of calling into question one of its own decisions, the FIA has changed its position on the blocking incident that involved Kevin Magnussen and Charles Leclerc in Suzuka.

The Haas and Sauber drivers were locked in a battle for position when Magnussen moved to the right to block Leclerc from attempting a pass, which led to a contact between the two cars, damage and ultimately to the Dane’s retirement.

The stewards initially ruled that the skirmish had been a racing incident, a view initially supported by F1 race director Charlie Whiting.

In Austin however, during the drivers’ briefing, Whiting revisited the incident and revised his position, stating that Magnussen had effectively moved too late.

“Charlie told us that he agreed that Magnussen probably moved a little bit too late,” Sergio Perez told Motorsport.com.

“I think he moved just a little bit too late, given the speed differences, but it’s always a bit difficult with these mirrors as well to see the difference in speed.”

Whiting clarified for drivers once again the rules regarding defensive moves. Perez’s team mate Esteban Ocon revealed that Magnussen recognized that his move had come too late.

“They said that Kevin did move too late, definitely, and it was not very safe. So probably things are going to change,” said the Frenchman.

“I’ve seen it, and I was the same in Sochi [when Magnussen and Ocon were racing each other], and we touched as well. Everybody agreed. Kevin agreed he was too late, he said it to Charlie.”

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Michael Delaney

Recent Posts

Cheers to the forever young pure racer Jacques Laffite

The forever young Jacques Laffite turns 81 today, but the years haven't aged this pure…

1 hour ago

Las Vegas GP: Wednesday's build-up in pictures

The neon lights of Las Vegas are set to illuminate the Formula 1 world once…

2 hours ago

Tsunoda’s journey to Vegas nearly derailed by immigration standoff

Yuki Tsunoda kicked off his Las Vegas Grand Prix race week with a rather interesting…

3 hours ago

Hamilton: ‘I’m still here fighting - nothing can take me down’

Lewis Hamilton has dismissed suggestions that recent comments from Mercedes boss Toto Wolff have soured…

4 hours ago

Norris opens up on emotional toll of Brazil title blow

Lando Norris admitted that the aftermath of his crushing defeat in Brazil at the hands…

5 hours ago

Russell slams FIA's deafening silence as GPDA frustrations mount

In a pointed critique that underscores growing tensions between Formula 1 drivers and the sport's…

7 hours ago