The FIA has issued a warning to all Formula 1 teams after it found “numerous examples” of pit crews servicing cars without adequate eye protection during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
During the race, Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton had been among six drivers placed under investigation for potential pit lane infringements.
The Stewards said that the matter would be investigated after the race, only to summon managers and representatives from each of the 10 teams.
In its summons, the FIA clarified that the potential infringement concerned pit crew members who were “potentially not wearing the required eye protection during a stop”.
The stewards were investigating a potential breach of Article 34.13 in Formula 1’s Sporting Regulations which stipulates that the usage of appropriate eye protection for those carrying out work on a car in the pitlane is “compulsory”.
Those servicing the vehicles must also be wearing helmets which “meet or exceed” the FIA’s requirements.
After viewing video evidence and receiving reports from the Race Director and Pit Lane marshals, the FIA determined that it appeared there were “numerous” breaches of Article 34.13 during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
While the FIA was swift to confirm that breaches had taken place, “the video evidence was in some cases insufficiently clear to determine where for example, a visor was open, the team member concerned may have been wearing glasses or other eye protection.
“Notwithstanding, there were numerous examples of eye protection not being used,” the Stewards report asserted.
Without sufficient evidence to escalate the issue further, the FIA issued a reminder asking for respect and adherence of the article going forward.
“The safety of team members is paramount. All Teams are requested to stress the importance of eye protection for all personnel working on a car and ensure that this Article is respected by all team members in the future.”
