F1: F1 probe outcome to be announced in March – Gulf Digital News

F1: F1 probe outcome to be announced in March – Gulf Digital News

LONDON: Formula One’s governing body said yesterday it will announce in March, on the eve of the opening race in Bahrain, the outcome of an investigation into last season’s controversial Abu Dhabi finale.

The 2021 title was won by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen after a change to the usual safety car procedure allowed him to overtake Lewis Hamilton on the last lap and denied the Mercedes driver a record eighth title.

The FIA recognised last month that the uproar was tarnishing the image of the championship and said it would carry out a thorough analysis with all teams and drivers to be consulted.

There has been criticism on social media of the apparent slow pace of the investigation, with suggestions that Hamilton’s future in the sport could depend on the outcome.

The Briton has been silent since Abu Dhabi, making no comment on events.

The FIA, also largely silent on the process in recent weeks, issued a timetable yesterday and said the Sporting Advisory Committee would meet on Jan. 19 and look at the use of the safety car.

“The following stage will be a shared discussion with all F1 drivers,” it said.

“The outcome of the detailed analysis will be presented to the F1 Commission