F1 News
Michael Masi denies that the black and white flag will lead to dangerous driving
Formula 1's race director, Michael Masi, believes that the use of black and white flags will not lead to drivers trying to push the limits and drive more dangerously. Charles Leclerc was shown the black and white flag during the Italian Grand Prix and pundits and fans are worried that the use of the flag will become more common.
"I don't think they will act more dangerous," Masi said to Autosport. "They may be looking at things slightly more, but they are on the border and you can step over that border relatively easily.
"The way it has worked and the two manners it has been introduced in and used so far, for me, I think it is serving its purpose.
"But you have to look at each and every incident on its own merit."
Masi can decide if someone should be shown a black and white flag but it is the stewards who have the power to penalize a driver.
"It is ultimately the stewards' decision if someone gets penalized," he said.
"The bad sportsmanship flag is me, but if the stewards feel there is more to it they absolutely have the capability of issuing a penalty."
Hopefully, the drivers will respect the rules and we won't see an increase in dangerous driving.