F1 drivers join Verstappen: 'Must have consequences'
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- Nicole Mulder
On several occasions, especially in Monaco, a late red flag has denied drivers the chance to improve their lap time. This is particularly painful in the narrow streets of Monte Carlo, as a good starting position is crucial for success in the race. Max Verstappen would like to see the FIA intervene when yellow or red flags are caused in qualifying, and several Formula 1 drivers concur.
F1 drivers agree with Verstappen on red flag
Verstappen has spoken out in the past about late red flags in qualifying. As far as the Dutchman is concerned, the FIA should be allowed to intervene if that situation arises. Carlos Sainz, among others, echoed the Red Bull Racing driver's words at the time.
This year too, the subject is coming up again. Esteban Ocon and George Russell both think it is only logical that there should be consequences for whoever causes a red flag late in qualifying. "If i'm correct that's been looked at by the FIA recently. We've discussed that in some drivers meeting that a situation where our driver would cause the red flag would be monitored," said Ocon.
"I think that should be something sensible to be doing because we've seen in the past drivers causing issues and the others not being able to do a lap so that should be something that the FIA monitors," the Alpine driver noted.
Russell agrees with Ocon's words. "I agree with Esteban. We obviously have laps deleted all the time in qualifying for track limits. If you were to cause a yellow flag or red flag you should probably have your best lap deleted," the Mercedes driver said.
When asked, Verstappen did not comment on the issue, but raised his thumb to indicate his agreement with his colleagues.
Red flags caused in qualifying in Monaco
On more than one occasion, a red flag in Q3 prevented drivers from attempting to put their car on pole position. More than once, it was the pole-sitter of the moment who caused the red flag. The most famous example is Michael Schumacher, who brought qualifying to a halt in 2006 with a clearly deliberate action. The stewards were not going to be fooled and took away the German's pole. He had to start at the back, while his rival Fernando Alonso won the race from pole position - and eventually the championship.
Charles Leclerc also caused a red flag in Q3 while on pole in 2021. Unlike Schumacher, this time there seemed to be a genuine mistake, resulting in substantial damage. The Monegasque was ultimately unable to start due to undetected damage to his gearbox. In 2022, it was Sergio Perez who incurred the wrath of Verstappen by causing a red flag in Q3, an action he reportedly admitted was deliberate. However, it did not earn Perez pole: he started from P3 and Verstappen from P4, but in the end the Mexican won the race.