17/02/2014
NEWS STORY
In a welcome change of heart the FIA has given the go ahead for drivers to perform celebratory donuts after winning races.
For as long as can be remembered, Formula One's powers that be have looked down on the celebrations that mark success in so many other sports, the antics of MotoGP winners springing to mind.
In the wake of his celebratory donuts following the Indian Grand Prix, having won his fourth successive title, there was concern that Sebastian Vettel might be penalised for breaking the rules, the German filling the air with tyre smoke much to the delight of the fans in the stands and those watching on TV.
Now, in the latest update of the 2014 Sporting Regulations, the FIA has clearly realised that such celebrations appeal to viewers and has given its consent to the practice.
While Article 43.3 states: After receiving the end-of-race signal all cars must proceed on the circuit directly to the post race parc fermé without any unnecessary delay, without receiving any object whatsoever and without any assistance (except that of the marshals if necessary).
An exception to Article 30.4 - which states that; "under no circumstances may a driver stop his car on the track without justifiable reason" and to the above will be made for the winning driver who may perform an act of celebration before reaching parc fermé, provided any such act:
a) Is performed safely and does not endanger other drivers or any officials.
b) Does not call into question the legality of his car.
c) Does not delay the podium ceremony.
There's still a long way to go in terms of 'humanising' the sport - and a post-race lap of honour, with the driver and his car on the back of a trailer waving to the crowds, like the old days, would be a start - but this latest move is a step in the right direction.
Mmmm donuts.
Chris Balfe