FIA Adjusts F1 Regulations Following Bearman Incident….Read More
The FIA has implemented a revision to the Formula 1 sporting regulations following a peculiar scenario that played out during the Australian Grand Prix involving Max Verstappen and stand-in Ferrari driver Ollie Bearman. The change comes as part of the sport’s ongoing effort to refine race procedures and maintain competitive fairness under the safety car.
During the Melbourne race, Bearman, who was substituting for Carlos Sainz, found himself a lap down when the safety car was deployed. In line with established protocol, he was permitted to unlap himself, rejoining the back of the field before racing resumed. Although the process followed the rulebook, it sparked discussions within the FIA about improving the clarity and consistency of such scenarios. As a result, an update to the regulations has now been made, although the exact details of the amendment are yet to be publicly disclosed.
This decision forms part of a broader strategy by the FIA to respond promptly to unusual or ambiguous situations during races, ensuring teams and drivers operate within a transparent and fair framework. The governing body has been under increasing pressure to fine-tune aspects of the sporting code, particularly around safety car deployments, restart procedures, and blue flag rules.
Meanwhile, another headline from the world of Formula 1 concerns reigning World Champion Max Verstappen, who has opted out of attending the media day for the Miami Grand Prix. Despite his absence from pre-race media obligations, Verstappen is still scheduled to participate in the race weekend at the Miami International Autodrome.
On Thursday, speculation began to swirl when Verstappen’s Falcon 8X private jet was spotted still stationed in Nice, France—the nearest airport to his residence in Monaco. This sparked questions among fans and media about the reason behind his delayed departure for Miami.
While neither Red Bull nor Verstappen has officially commented on the reason for his late arrival, it is clear that he remains committed to the race itself. His absence from media day is unusual but not entirely unprecedented, as top drivers sometimes adjust their schedules due to personal or logistical reasons.
The Miami Grand Prix remains a key event in the 2025 Formula 1 calendar, with high expectations for Verstappen, who continues to lead the championship standings. His performance on the track will undoubtedly draw attention, even if he missed his media commitments.
In summary, the FIA’s rule amendment is a direct response to procedural inconsistencies witnessed in Melbourne, and Max Verstappen’s late arrival in Miami adds a layer of intrigue to the upcoming race weekend.
