Formula one: FIA clarifies rules for danger-seekers

LONDON: Formula One’s ruling body clarified the rules on dangerous racing moves by drivers defending a position in the heat of a race — and giving the benefit of the doubt to the man who is leading. The ruling comes after several controversial incidents this year in which drivers have vigorously defended their positions and in some cases forced challenging rivals off the circuit. “Any driver defending his position on a straight, and before any braking area, may use the full width of the track during his first move provided no significant portion of the car attempting to pass is alongside his,” said Charlie Whiting, the race director of the FIA. “Whilst defending in this way, the driver may not leave the track without justifiable reason.”

Published in The Express Tribune, July 16^th, 2012.