The Stewards noted in particular the evidence of the drivers of Car 1, 14 and 63 and
also noted that several other cars slowed either at the pit exit or in the pit road leading
up to the SC2 line.
The Stewards consider that the entire set of incidents occurred as a direct result of
the implementation of the minimum lap time between SC2 and SC1 which is designed
(correctly so, in our view) to avoid dangerous backing-up of cars on the circuit during
Qualification. We note that there are contrary requirements on drivers in that they
must respect the minimum time, they are attempting to create manageable gaps to
cars in front, yet they are also required to avoid unnecessarily stopping at the pit exit
or driving unnecessarily slowly.
It was also particularly noted that the Race Director accepted that these contrary
requirements exist. All parties including the Stewards are firmly of the view that it is
better to have the potential of cars backing-up in the pit lane or at the pit exit, instead
of the potentially dangerous situation of large speed differences on track.
We consider that in the main all drivers involved in these incidents were acting in
good faith and with safety as a priority. We also accept that Race Direction has
taken the correct approach in apply the minimum lap time. It is desirable that better
solution be found for the pit exit however at this stage, what that solution would be, is
unknown.
In view of the above, no further action is taken.
