FIA warns drivers in Monaco
The FIA has warned drivers that any signs of chicanes being cut in Monte-Carlo will be reported to race stewards with immediate effect. The notice came as the field was sent a message by race director Charlie Whiting during third practice on Saturday morning, with all competitors urged to keep inside wheels on the race track. With last year's Spa penalty for Lewis Hamilton still fresh in the minds of drivers, Whiting's warning advises all to 'use but not abuse' the famous Monaco street circuit; particular points of interest will be the Nouvelle Chicane and Swimming Pool Complex, often locations of drivers travelling over or inside rumble strips.
"Provided a part of the outer wheel remains on the track when crossing the apex (closest point a car travels to the inside of a corner), we will be satisfied that the driver is using the track," Whiting reported. Teams have clearly taken the message onboard, however, as Jenson Button's radio communication proved when informed during the final practice session.
"If all parts of all four wheels are on or behind a kerb when they cross the apex, a report will be made to the stewards," Whiting continued. "Judges of fact have been appointed in key areas around the track to provide race control with immediate reports."