FIA responds to criticism on track limits from Verstappen and others

The FIA has responded to the criticism of the track limits at the Austrian Grand Prix last weekend. The stewards handed out several penalties to drivers during the weekend.

Sergio Perez was the first major victim of the track limits at the Red Bull Ring. The Mexican received a penalty after qualifying for exceeding track limits in Q2. As a result, Perez did not actually belong in Q3 and was dropped to thirteenth position.

During the Grand Prix the track limits were exceeded no less than 43 times. In total four drivers received a time penalty of five seconds. In Formula 2 a driver lost his podium position because of the track limits. Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen each exceeded the track limits twice during the race and were therefore not in danger. However, the Dutchman was not happy about the track limits rules after the race.

According to, among others Speedcafe.com The FIA provides an explanation for the strict track limits in Spielberg. "The checking of the track limits at the Austrian Grand Prix was consistent with all previous events this year. At every circuit, the white line is used to indicate track limits. This was implemented following discussions with the drivers and teams to improve consistency and clarity for the competitors and fans."

The FIA emphasises that the number of penalties handed out corresponds to the number of times Article 33.3 was violated. During a race, drivers receive two warnings if they cross the white line with all four tyres. For a third offence, the black and white flag is waved, but if it goes wrong again after that, it can lead to a penalty.