FIA NEWS: FIA Confirms Deleted Lap Times for Red Bull a…read more
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has officially confirmed the deletion of several lap times set by drivers from Red Bull Racing and McLaren during qualifying sessions at the Japanese Grand Prix held at the iconic Suzuka International Racing Course.
According to a statement released by the FIA, the lap times were deleted due to track limits violations, a growing concern in recent seasons as drivers push the boundaries in pursuit of better grid positions. The governing body reiterated its commitment to fairness and consistency in enforcing track regulations.
Lap Time Deletions: The Details
The affected drivers included Red Bull’s reigning world champion Max Verstappen, his teammate Sergio Pérez, and McLaren’s Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. The incidents occurred during both Q1 and Q2 qualifying sessions, with each driver exceeding the designated track limits at various corners, most notably at the infamous Turn 9 and Turn 15 chicanes.
Max Verstappen saw his fastest lap in Q2 deleted, which temporarily dropped him out of the top spot, although he later recovered with a clean lap that secured him a front-row start. Sergio Pérez, meanwhile, lost a crucial lap in Q1 but managed to progress to Q2 with a marginally slower effort. McLaren’s Lando Norris had a lap deleted that could have placed him in the top four, while Oscar Piastri lost a potentially session-leading lap in Q1, forcing him to fight back with only minutes remaining on the clock.
FIA’s Statement
In their official communication, the FIA clarified the circumstances and reasoning behind the deletions:
“During the qualifying sessions for the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix, the race stewards identified multiple instances of drivers exceeding track limits at Turns 9 and 15. In accordance with Article 33.3 of the Sporting Regulations, any lap where a driver leaves the track and gains a lasting advantage will result in the deletion of that lap time. The rule applies uniformly across all teams and drivers.”
The statement further emphasized that all affected teams were notified in real-time via the FIA messaging system, allowing them to respond and strategize accordingly.
Reactions from the Paddock
Team principals and drivers had mixed reactions to the decision, with some expressing frustration at the strict enforcement of track limits, while others welcomed the consistency.
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner, speaking after the session, said, “It’s always frustrating to lose a good lap time, especially when you’re pushing the limits. But rules are rules. The stewards have been clear and consistent, and that’s all we can ask for. Max and Checo bounced back well, so no complaints from our side.”
McLaren’s Team Principal Andrea Stella was a bit more vocal in his criticism, particularly regarding the sensitivity of track sensors: “These cars are on the limit, and it’s a fine margin between being inside or outside the line. We understand the need for consistency, but there’s room for review—maybe some corners need different treatment. That said, we’ll regroup and look forward to the race.”
Lando Norris, visibly frustrated, said, “It’s annoying, for sure. You do everything right, hook up a perfect lap, and then you’re told it’s gone. But I get it—if it’s over the line, it’s over. We just need to be more precise.”
Impact on Race Strategy
While the deleted lap times did not drastically change the starting grid, they did force drivers and teams to burn additional tires in later qualifying segments, potentially impacting race-day strategy. With tire degradation already a significant concern at Suzuka, especially through the high-speed Esses and Degner curves, teams will need to adapt.
Race analysts believe the incident could influence how aggressively drivers approach the corners in the race itself, knowing that cutting too much could lead to time penalties or warnings.
A Growing Theme in F1
The enforcement of track limits has become a key talking point in Formula 1 over the past few seasons. With advanced sensors and onboard telemetry providing precise data, the FIA has been under pressure to apply the rules equally across all events and circuits.
At circuits like Austria’s Red Bull Ring and Qatar’s Losail International Circuit, track limits have already played decisive roles in qualifying and race results. The FIA’s firm stance at Suzuka continues that trend, showcasing its dedication to maintaining sporting integrity.
Looking Ahead
As fans eagerly await lights out at Suzuka, all eyes will be on the Red Bull and McLaren drivers as they look to recover lost momentum. With race pace appearing strong for both teams during free practice sessions, the stage is set for a thrilling contest.
Whether the lap deletions will have a lasting impact on the final outcome remains to be seen. One thing is clear—the FIA’s commitment to rule enforcement will remain a key factor throughout the 2025 Formula 1 season.
