FIA adopts zero tolerance approach to Silverstone track limits

The FIA has adopted a “zero tolerance approach” to track limits at Silverstone, with race director Charlie Whiting notifying all F1 teams in a note sent out ahead of Saturday’s qualifying for the British Grand Prix.

The governing body has zeroed in on “turns 9, 15 and 18”, namely Copse, Stowe, and Club corners, and the statement warns that any driver failing to abide by the rules will see his lap time being nullified.

The note reads as follows: “Further to the discussion in the drivers meeting yesterday evening I would like to confirm that we will again be adopting a "zero tolerance" approach to cars leaving the track at turns 9, 15 and 18 during qualifying.

"Unless we are satisfied that a driver left the track at these points for reasons beyond his control, having been forced off the track for example, every lap time achieved by leaving the track will be deleted in accordance with Article 12.3.1.d of the Sporting Code.”

Talking about Sunday’s race, Whiting adds that Silverstone stewards will investigate any driver gaining significant time in leaving the track.

“During the race, and in accordance with Article 27.4 of the Sporting Regulations, any driver who is judged to have gained a clear and lasting advantage by leaving the track will be reported to the stewards," he said.

“Similarly, under the same Article, any driver who repeatedly leaves the track will be reported to the stewards for not having made every reasonable effort to use the track.”

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