FIA Summons Three F1 Teams due to…read more
The Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has summoned three Formula 1 teams to comply with the standard car display procedure ahead of the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix. This procedure, outlined in Article 19 of the FIA Formula One sporting regulations, requires teams to position their cars in the pit stop position for inspection before the first practice session. The teams involved are Alpine, Red Bull Racing, and Sauber, with drivers Franco Colapinto, Isack Hadjar, and Nico Hülkenberg representing their respective teams.
Car Display Procedure
The car display procedure is a standard practice implemented by the FIA to ensure that all teams adhere to the technical and safety regulations set forth for the season. By positioning the cars in the pit stop position, the FIA can conduct a thorough inspection to verify compliance with these regulations. This process is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the competition and ensuring that all teams operate on a level playing field.
Driver Focus: Isack Hadjar
Among the drivers involved in the car display procedure, Isack Hadjar stands out due to his recent performance. The rookie French driver has demonstrated impressive skill and consistency, earning a significant points haul for Red Bull Racing in the previous race. As a result, Hadjar has climbed into the top 10 of the drivers’ standings, showcasing his potential and determination. His participation in the car display procedure underscores the importance of adhering to FIA regulations, even for drivers who are new to the sport.
Spanish Grand Prix: A Turning Point
The Spanish Grand Prix, held at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, is often considered a pivotal race in the Formula 1 calendar. The circuit’s unique characteristics provide teams with valuable data that can influence car development for the remainder of the season. This year, the race takes on added significance as it marks the final time the Spanish Grand Prix will be held under its current title. Starting from the 2026 season, Madrid is set to take over the Spanish Grand Prix, potentially altering the landscape of Formula 1 racing in Spain.
Regulatory Changes Impacting Teams
In addition to the standard car display procedure, the FIA has introduced several regulatory changes for the 2025 season. Notably, the FIA has tightened control over flexible aerodynamic components, commonly known as “flexi-wings.” These components can change shape at high speeds, potentially providing teams with an unfair aerodynamic advantage. The new regulations aim to curb such advantages and enhance competition among teams. Jonathan Wheatley, Team Principal of Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber, has highlighted the potential impact of these changes, suggesting that they could serve as a “major performance differentiator” and possibly alter the current pecking order in Formula 1 .
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix approaches, all eyes will be on the teams and drivers as they navigate the challenges posed by the new regulations and the unique demands of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The car display procedure serves as a reminder of the FIA’s commitment to maintaining fairness and safety in the sport. For drivers like Isack Hadjar, it also represents an opportunity to demonstrate their compliance with the rules and their readiness to compete at the highest level. With the added intrigue of regulatory changes and the impending shift of the Grand Prix to Madrid, the Spanish Grand Prix is poised to be a significant event in the 2025 Formula 1 season.