F1 News Today: Red Bull and Mercedes handed DELETED LAPS verdict as FIA confirm Miami punishment on…read more
The FIA has officially published the list of deleted lap times from the Sprint race at the Miami Grand Prix, with top teams like Red Bull and Mercedes impacted by these rulings. This announcement comes ahead of the main race and has stirred up discussions in the paddock, especially with both teams being central figures in the ongoing championship battle.
During the high-pressure Sprint session at the Miami International Autodrome, several drivers from various teams exceeded track limits, leading to the deletion of their lap times. The FIA, maintaining its strict stance on enforcing track limit regulations, reviewed the laps carefully and confirmed which ones would be struck off. Among those affected were key drivers from Red Bull and Mercedes, two teams that are neck and neck in the championship standings.
Track limits have been a recurring issue throughout the F1 calendar, and Miami was no exception. The nature of the circuit, with its mix of high-speed straights and tight corners, has made it difficult for drivers to stay within the white lines, particularly in sectors two and three. As a result, numerous lap times were deleted after post-session analysis, impacting the overall Sprint classification.
Although the FIA’s final list of deleted laps does not drastically change the outcome of the Sprint race, it does have subtle implications for the starting grid and momentum heading into the main event. For Red Bull and Mercedes, every detail counts. A few lost positions or the inability to capitalize on a strong Sprint finish could shift the tide in the championship race. Teams must now recalibrate their strategies accordingly.
The deleted laps also serve as a warning to all drivers and teams about the consequences of pushing too far beyond the legal limits of the track. While the search for competitive edges is constant in Formula 1, the FIA has reiterated its commitment to upholding fair play and consistency in rule enforcement.
Alongside the announcement of the deleted lap times, the FIA also confirmed the official starting grid for the Miami Grand Prix. The grid takes into account not only the Sprint race outcome but also the penalties and adjustments following the review. While the front of the grid remains largely unchanged, some midfield shuffles could influence race dynamics, especially in a track like Miami where overtaking opportunities are limited and strategy is critical.
As teams finalize their preparations for Sunday’s race, all eyes will be on whether these deleted laps will have a lasting impact on the title chase. With tensions already running high between Red Bull and Mercedes, the FIA’s firm stance on lap deletions adds another layer of intensity to what promises to be a thrilling Grand Prix weekend.
