Carlos Sainz has voiced his dissatisfaction with Formula 1's Virtual Safety Car (VSC) rules, calling them "a bit unfair". The Williams driver spoke ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, highlighting the incident in Madrid where Lando Norris lost a win due to a VSC that appeared right after he pitted.
The incident drew attention because Norris, who was leading, had pitted seconds before the VSC was deployed. As a result, he missed a 'free' pit stop and had to settle for third place. Sainz, who also serves as a director of the Grand Prix Driver's Association (GPDA), was asked for his thoughts on the rule from his role's perspective.
"With my GPDA hat on, and even my personal cap on, I think VSCs are quite unfair," Sainz said. "If the VSC is at the perfect time for P2 to pit and give you a 10-second faster pit stop, and P1 is further up the road and didn't catch the VSC, I think P1 should be given an equal chance to pit."
Sainz emphasised the difference between VSC and Safety Car. According to him, the current VSC can penalise a driver who has executed a perfect race. "You're doing the perfect race, the perfect start, the perfect tyre management and a yellow flag at the wrong time gives the win to another driver," he added.
The Spanish driver proposed several alternatives so that VSC does not drastically change the race outcome. "Something like this, yes. Or close the pit lane. Or, I don't know, something that doesn't drastically change the outcome of the race, like sometimes it does," he explained.
If enough drivers speak out, it is possible that F1 will consider revising the VSC rules. However, there has been no official indication from the FIA or F1 management regarding such a change.
The incident in Madrid is a clear example of how VSC can affect race results. Norris, who had a strong performance, had to relinquish the win. Meanwhile, Lando Norris himself has not yet commented officially on Sainz's proposal.
This discussion about the fairness of VSC is not the first time it has arisen. Several other drivers have also complained about similar issues. With Sainz's proposal, a fairer solution for all drivers is hoped for.
Read Also
Pasar pembalap F1 2027 mulai terkuak di Baku: McLaren amankan kursi, Mercedes tunda penalti mesin, dan Ferrari masih berhitung. Simak update lengkapnya.
George Russell berharap ban Pirelli 2027 lebih seimbang untuk gaya mengemudi natural. Kimi Antonelli dan rival siap menanggapi. Simak analisisnya.
Lewis Hamilton mendukung balapan F1 2026 tetap digelar di Timur Tengah, meski konflik di Teluk memanas. Ia juga menolak opsi Imola sebagai penutup musim.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!