F1 Today | Verstappen summoned by FIA as freight headaches persist in China

The reigning four-time world champion skipped the FIA press conference during the opening round of the season, choosing instead to fulfil his media commitments through television interviews and sessions with the written press.

In China, the first group of drivers scheduled to speak to the media will include Fernando Alonso, Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly. The second session will feature Max Verstappen alongside Gabriel Bortoleto and Alex Albon.

Meanwhile, the traditional FIA press conference with team representatives will take place on Friday between FP1 and Sprint Qualifying, with Steve Nielsen, Jonathan Wheatley and Laurent Mekies set to answer questions from the media.

Formula 1 has once again been hit by freight-related delays, marking the second race weekend in a row in which logistical issues have disrupted the paddock schedule. After teams were granted an extended curfew in Melbourne last week due to disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict, new complications have now emerged ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix.

This time the difficulties involve Pirelli’s tyre deliveries, which arrived later than planned and forced a revision of the preparation timetable on Wednesday. As a result, the FIA has allowed teams a specific exemption to adjust their operations.

In a note issued by FIA Formula One race director Rui Marques, it was confirmed that Restricted Period 1 will be shortened by six hours for this event only. The change allows up to six operational staff per team to work during that time solely for tyre preparation once the tyres have been fitted by the supplier.