Summary
The FIA has explained two notable moments during the Mexico City Grand Prix. Both situations caused much discussion. One involved a dangerous situation with marshal(s) early in the race. The other was about a late deployment of the virtual safety car (VSC) just before the end.
Near collision with marshals
Early in the race, Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson almost ran into two marshals. That happened on the third lap, between turns 1 and 2. Lawson had just left the pits and was taken totally by surprise at that moment. He reacted very strongly and called the situation unacceptable.
According to the FIA, marshals were on hand to remove broken parts from the track after an incident at Turn 1. After it became clear that Lawson had pitched, instructions to enter the track were withdrawn. A double yellow flag was then displayed at that spot.
The FIA says it is still investigating why two marshals were on the track anyway. At the same time, it expressed appreciation for the efforts of local, volunteer marshals. The FIA calls their work professional and indispensable for safe races.
The late VSC for Carlos Sainz
On the penultimate lap, Carlos Sainz went off the track in the stadium section. He tried to drive his Williams out of the way and stopped at an opening in the crash barriers. At first glance, he appeared to be out of the danger zone.
Still, the FIA sounded the alarm. Sainz's car started smoking and reports of fire came in to racecontrol. As a result, marshal intervention was needed to salvage the car. This is standard procedure. From a safety point of view, the race was therefore normalised with a virtual safety car until the car was in a protected position behind the barriers.
The VSC ended immediately after the car was safely moved. The race finished under a green flag. The decision resulted in Max Verstappen not getting a last chance to pass Charles Leclerc on the straight. Verstappen reacted soberly to it, saying such decisions are part of racing.
Key points in a row
- Marshals stood by to remove debris; instruction later withdrawn.
- FIA investigating why two marshals appeared on the track anyway.
- Sainz's car became damaged and started smoking; reports of possible fire followed.
- VSC was deployed until the car was behind the barriers and the situation was safe.
- The FIA praised the professionalism and commitment of volunteer marshals.
Concluding remark
Both incidents highlight the tension between speed and safety in F1. The FIA is sticking to protocols. At the same time, an investigation into what exactly went wrong in the marshal action is ongoing. The outcome may have implications for future proceedings.
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