After witnessing the perplexing actions and subsequent lack of penalty for Max Verstappen during the qualifying at the Mexican Grand Prix, Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff, has strongly urged for a consultation with the FIA. Verstappen managed to avoid any punitive measures even after causing a delay in the pit-lane during qualifying—a situation that left competitors behind him in a bind, preventing them from proceeding to set a lap time.
Earlier in the season, due to persistent traffic issues during qualifying, race director Niels Wittich had introduced a maximum lap time, aimed at discouraging drivers from reducing speed excessively in the final corners, waiting for a clear space ahead.
Despite this rule, drivers, aiming for a clear track to set their best times, still find themselves in a bit of a tactical tussle. In Mexico, Verstappen, aiming for such a clear space, didn’t just slow down but came to a complete stop at the forefront of the pit-lane, waiting for an opening.
Verstappen’s move, clearly not in the usual spirit of qualifications, caused a stir among the rival teams and drivers who were held back due to his actions. However, despite the controversy, the stewards decided not to penalize him after their investigation.
Concerning the incident, the official communication highlighted the dilemma drivers face: respecting the minimum time and managing gaps with the cars ahead while avoiding unnecessary stops or slow driving at the pit exit.
