Source: Official Team Post via X
Carlos Sainz and F1 Fans Criticize FIA Over Singapore GP Software Glitch
Carlos Sainz has expressed frustration with the FIA following a software issue during Sprint Qualifying at the Singapore GP, which affected some drivers' access to Overtake Mode. Fans echoed his concerns, questioning the fairness and integrity of the FIA's processes.
Formula 1 fans and Carlos Sainz found themselves on the same side of the fence after a software glitch during the Singapore Grand Prix's Sprint Qualifying session. The issue arose when Overtake Mode was inconsistently available to drivers, leading to a flurry of complaints and a swift apology from the FIA.
The glitch, which emerged after the chequered flag at the Marina Bay Street Circuit, saw some cars with access to the power boost while others were left without. The FIA admitted to a 'human error' in race control, which meant Overtake Mode was only available for a brief 27-second window after the red flag period in SQ1.
Carlos Sainz was among those most affected, starting from a disappointing P22 in Saturday's race. The Williams driver voiced his frustration, noting that the error left half the field with a half-second advantage. Sainz remarked, "For whatever reason, the FIA, like in Malaysia, didn’t decide to do sporting equity... We did the whole lap with half a second less power than any other lap of the weekend."
The FIA's Nikolas Tombazis was reportedly seen heading to the Williams hospitality area to discuss the matter with Sainz and his teammate Alex Albon. While no formal protest is expected from the affected teams, fans have been vocal about the issue. Many noted on social media that if the error had impacted front-running teams, the uproar would have been far greater.
One fan on Reddit commented, "So qualifying was artificially influenced by the FIA. That’s utterly crazy." Another fan drew parallels to Fernando Alonso's recent criticism of the FIA's handling of similar issues, suggesting that problems affecting midfield or lower-tier teams often receive less attention.
Despite the frustration, the incident is unlikely to impact the championship standings significantly, with top contenders Kimi Antonelli and George Russell unaffected in their march to SQ3.
As the sport grapples with technological and regulatory challenges, fans and drivers alike hope for a more consistent approach from the governing body, ensuring a fair and level playing field for all competitors.