F1 clamps down on track limits in Singapore

The issue of track limits has been a hot topic in recent weeks, and the FIA has introduced a line and bollard system at Marina Bay's first bends that ensures that drivers who run wide lose time.

In a note sent to teams before the event, F1 race director Charlie Whiting said: “Arrangements for cars to re-join the track having gone into the run-off area at Turn 1 will be made, i.e. lines and bollards to follow as at the second chicane at Monza.”

The note later clarified: "Any driver who fails to negotiate Turn 2 by using the track, and who passes completely to the right of the orange kerb element, must keep to the right of the red and white polystyrene block and rejoin the track on the outside of Turn 3."

Prior to opening practice, a long sausage kerb has been laid behind the kerbs to discourage drivers from abusing the track limits in a bit to gain time or positions.

Furthermore, a long yellow line that leads to an arrowed polystyrene board at the far end of the corner has been put down – with drivers told that they will have to keep to the right of the final marker before they can rejoin the track.

There have been several occasions in Singapore of drivers gaining position, especially on the first lap, by straight-lining the first corners.

Felipe Nasr was summoned to see the stewards following opening practice for not having obeyed the instructions after running wide.