FIA issue clarification after Bearman lap time confusion during Imola Qualifying

Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA, have released a statement regarding their review into whether or not Ollie Bearman’s fastest time during the first phase of Qualifying for the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix should have counted.

Haas driver Bearman shot up to 10th position with an improvement late in Q1, only for that time to be deleted when it was determined by Race Control that it had been posted after the red flags were thrown for Alpine returnee Franco Colapinto’s crash.

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Confusion then ensued as a review into the matter was launched after Q1, leading to a delay before the Q2 phase began while the stewards reviewed data, with the final decision being that Bearman’s time should not stand.

Bearman and Haas both expressed their frustration over the situation post-Qualifying and, ahead of Sunday’s race at Imola, the FIA offered some background as to how they reached the verdict and what caused the wait.

“In relation to the Oliver Bearman situation in Q1, the red flag was set at 16:32.17.6 seconds,” began their statement.

“Bearman crossed the line at 16:32.20.9 seconds with the abort signal / red flag showing on the start gantry.

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“Qualifying 2 was delayed to enable the stewards to consult the relevant timing experts and examine the underlining data to satisfy themselves that the timing system data was valid and it was therefore right to proceed.

“The overriding objective was to determine whether or not Bearman had completed the lap before or after the red flag and whether the lap should be disallowed, to ensure the right drivers progressed to Qualifying 2.”

Haas, meanwhile, shared their own statement with the media on Sunday morning, confirming that they are seeking more answers from the FIA.

“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.

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“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.”

Bearman will line up for the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in 19th position, ahead of only pit lane starter Yuki Tsunoda, with team mate Esteban Ocon qualifying 18th.

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