Haas want 'further explanation' after Bearman's controversially deleted lap time

According to the American team, the rookie has already completed his flying lap by the time the red flag was waved, after Franco Colapinto crashed and caused a red flag.

Bearman appeared to qualify for the second session of the day in P10, however, it was removed. After a delay, Gabriel Bortoleto could continue after the Brazilian finished in P15.

The American team argue that the decision was based on an error and wants not only an explanation, but also to know what steps the FIA will take to prevent the recurrence of such situations in the future.

"After discussions last night with the FIA, we have subsequently asked for further written clarification on the decision making concerning Ollie Bearman’s final Q1 lap in order for us to review more comprehensively. We similarly asked what measures the FIA / Race Control can put in place moving forward to ensure that this situation is avoided in the future to the benefit of F1. Upon review we will be more informed to comment," the team shared a statement.

Following the session, Oliver Bearman also shared his thoughts on the FIA's decision. "I don't know what took them 10 minutes to understand. It's a clear cut case in my opinion. From what I saw it was extremely clear. But unfortunately not for them," the Briton told GPblog among others.

This article was written in collaboration with Mitchell van der Hoef