FIA limits pitlane access

Safety standards tightened after TV cameraman struck by wheel

Formula One's governing body ordered an immediate clampdown on access to the pitlane on Tuesday after a television cameraman was struck and injured by a bouncing wheel at last weekend's German Grand Prix.

The International Automobile Federation (FIA) said in a statement that only authorized team personnel and event marshals will be allowed to work in the pitlane during qualifying sessions and the race.

"Access for approved media will be confined to the pit wall," it stated.

British cameraman Paul Allen suffered a broken collarbone and fractured ribs in the incident when Australian Mark Webber pulled away from the Red Bull pits without the car's rear right wheel being properly attached.

The wheel, weighing some 10 kg, flew off and bounced down the pitlane, missing Mercedes mechanics before hitting Allen on the back.

The cameraman was hospitalized but is expected to make a full recovery.

The incident triggered a fresh focus on Formula One safety after a spate of tire explosions during the British Grand Prix saw debris thrown up in the path of drivers, who arrived in Germany threatening a boycott.

FIA said president Jean Todt, a former Ferrari team principal, had demanded immediate changes to the sporting regulations in order to reduce the risk of similar pitlane accidents.

"FIA today informed teams that the approval of the World Motor Sport Council will immediately be sought for two changes to the Sporting Regulations.

"Both of these changes have already been approved for 2014," it said.

The first change stipulates all team personnel working on a car during a pitstop must wear head protection, already a common practice for mechanics.

The second reduces the pit lane speed limit during races from 100kph to 80kph, with the exception of Melbourne, Monaco and Singapore where due to track configuration the limit is 60kph.

FIA said it expects champions Red Bull to submit a written report about the Nuerburgring incident on Wednesday. The report will be shared with the other 10 teams.

(China Daily 07/11/2013 page23)