Russell says F1 red flag rules 'need work'

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Williams George Russell says Formula 1's red flag rules require change, mainly to avoid drivers from benefitting from a free tyre change during a race's pause.

The Tuscan Grand Prix at Mugello was halted and restarted twice following several crashes, and Russell believes he was on the receiving end of the unfair provision that allows drivers to swap tyres in the pitlane during a halt.

In particular, the Briton noted that Ferrari's Charles Leclerc, to whom the Williams driver lost a position just before the red flag, benefitted from a free second pit stop.

"I do agree the biggest thing is the tyre change in the pitstop," explained Russell. "These guys are getting free tyre changes.

"We were on a good strategy, the tyres were great for us and then suddenly people can box and put on whatever tyres they want. They ultimately get a free pitstop.

"I was ahead of Charles. He didn't box, he lucked into the red flag, and then he's ahead of me and can just put a new set of tyres on. So I lost a position to Charles under the red flag."

At Monza, Lance Stroll also lucked into a free pitstop when the race was red-flagged, a good fortune also criticized by McLaren's Lando Norris who finished behind the Canadian.

Read also: Vettel no fan of 'lottery' standing starts after red flags

The succession of red flags at Monza and Mugello have logically highlighted the unfair aspect of the free pitstop rule, something the FIA should take a look at insists Russell.

"If you're going to continue to do this more often, they need work on a couple of rules," said the 22-year-old.

"You shouldn't be allowed to have a free tyre change as part of the race. You're in the race. You need to stay on the tyres you are on at that time.

"People plan their strategy around a normal race not around races that are getting two red flags in."

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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.