Misplaced Decision at Inappropriate Moment

In the recent Formula 1 Grand Prix at Zandvoort, a series of incidents have sparked debate among fans, drivers, and race officials. The collision between Carlos Sainz and Liam Lawson at the exit of the Tarzan corner has been the centre of attention, with questions surrounding the referees' decision not to penalise the drivers involved.

The race directors, including the late Charlie Whiting and the current appointed FIA race directors, have the authority to make key decisions that ensure safer or more exciting racing. In situations like the Sainz-Lawson collision, lighter standards or special rulings may be applied to facilitate overtaking maneuvers. However, the specific rules about when these standards are applied are governed by the FIA and race control discretion, rather than publicised fixed criteria.

Evidence suggests that Leclerc was briefly off the track with all four wheels during the Leclerc/Russell case, which was deemed a "normal racing incident." The referees' decision not to penalise Leclerc and Russell was made after the race, causing a delay of three hours. This decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some drivers expressing frustration, such as Hunt who was furious with his opponent in a past event, while Andretti responded dryly, stating "We're racing here."

The long stretch between the apex and the corner exit in the 180-degree bend made it difficult to make a decision in the Sainz/Lawson collision. The referees justified their decision to deal with the duel after the race by saying that not all evidence was available in time. Sainz was furious about the penalty and demanded a meeting with the officials, during which the referees seemed less sure of their decision, according to Sainz.

The new overtaking regulations are considered a blessing and a curse, with some suggesting turning a blind eye to certain maneuvers in the name of fan enjoyment. Nico Hülkenberg, for instance, supports allowing maneuvers that may violate regulations for the sake of fan enjoyment. Gabriel Bortoleto shares a similar view, suggesting a more relaxed standard for overtaking on certain racetracks.

The collision between Sainz and Lawson has brought back memories of a similar accident in the same corner during the 1977 Dutch GP, involving James Hunt and Mario Andretti. In that incident, Hunt jumped over the left front wheel of Andretti's Lotus at the exit of the Tarzan corner. Despite the incident, the 1977 incident was not considered particularly bad.

Overtaking in Zandvoort is known to be difficult, and some suggest that the track's layout may contribute to the need for more flexible overtaking rules. Lawson, however, stated that "Rules are rules" and expressed his belief that he should not be the victim in this situation.

In the end, motorsport is primarily for fans, according to Hülkenberg, and the debate surrounding the Sainz-Lawson collision highlights the importance of striking a balance between fairness and excitement for the spectators.