FIA Clarifies 2026 Red Flag Rules After Imola Controversy

The FIA is implementing a clear-cut rule for 2026 to eliminate ambiguity around red flags during qualifying and races, directly addressing the controversy that eliminated Oliver Bearman at the Emilia Romagna GP. The change follows an incident where Bearman's lap was deleted despite him crossing the line moments before red flag lights were visibly displayed on his car, sparking debate over electronic versus visual signals. The clarification ensures the official timekeeping system is the sole authority on when a red flag is effectively deployed.

Why it matters:

This move is crucial for sporting fairness, ensuring all competitors operate under a single, indisputable signal in high-pressure sessions. It removes potential for protests and confusion where a single lap can determine a driver's entire race weekend. The new rule provides definitive clarity for drivers, who must now abandon their laps the moment the official electronic signal is sent, not when they see physical flags or lights on their dashboard.

The details:

• The Imola Incident: During Q1 at Imola, Oliver Bearman's flying lap was deleted after the stewards ruled the red flag was signaled electronically three seconds before he crossed the finish line. This was despite onboard footage appearing to show no red lights on his car at the moment he completed the lap, leading to widespread confusion.
• The New Rule: The updated International Sporting Code explicitly states that any lap time set after the first display of the red flag—as determined by the official timekeeping system—is invalid. The stewards are required to delete any lap times recorded after this moment.
• Universal Application: The FIA has confirmed this procedure will apply across all sessions, including practice, qualifying, and the grand prix itself, leaving no room for interpretation.
• Protest Fee Hike: In a separate 2026 regulation update, the FIA will significantly increase the cost of lodging a protest from €2,000 to €20,000. The fee, partly influenced by driver feedback like George Russell's, will be deducted from a team's cost cap if the protest is unsuccessful.

What's next:

These regulatory tweaks signal the FIA's intent to close loopholes and enhance clarity ahead of the 2026 season. For drivers and teams, the message is clear: the official electronic timing system is now the definitive source for session status. Expect teams to adapt their qualifying strategies to prioritize abandoning laps immediately upon any hint of a red flag to avoid risking a deleted time.