FIA clarify pit exit rule after Monaco protest

F1 race director Niels Wittich has confirmed drivers will be permitted to run their cars across the pit exit line after a failed Ferrari protest in Monaco.

Ferrari contacted the FIA with concerns over both Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez in Monaco after it appeared the Red Bull pair had touched the yellow line on the pit exit, something that had previously been punishable in the regulations.

However, ahead of the current season, changes were made to the International Sporting Code that now permits drivers to cross the line but only so long as no tyre entirely crosses the marker.

In his event notes for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Wittich confirmed: "In accordance with Chapter 4, Article 4 and 5 of Appendix L to the ISC drivers must follow the procedures at pit entry and pit exit."

Part of this regulation reads: "Except in cases of force majeure [accepted as such by the Stewards], any tyre of a car exiting the pitlane must not cross any line painted on the track at the pit exit for the purpose of separating cars leaving the pitlane from those on the track."

This ruling is the same for pit entry.

In event notes for Monaco and all the races that preceded it, both Wittich and Eduardo Freitas had instructed drivers to remain to one side of the line when exiting the pits.

ISC pit rule in full

Although it will likely prove to be of no consequence at most tracks, teams will need to adapt to this latest change as quickly as possible.

The full International Sporting Code articles listed by Wittich read:

4. Entrance to the pitlane

a) The section of track from the end of pitlane to the second safety car line [SC2] is designated the "pit exit". b) There will be a green light and a red light (or similar signs) at the pitlane exit. Cars may only leave the pitlane when the green light is on [or sign is displayed]. c) Except in cases of force majeure [accepted as such by the Stewards], any tyre of a car exiting the pitlane must not cross any line painted on the track at the pit exit for the purpose of separating cars leaving the pitlane from those on the track.

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