MAY 25, 2002

Curtains for pitlane screens

THE FIA has issued a statement which suggests that screens, covers and other obstructions which in any way obscure any part of the car in the pitlane or the garages must be removed unless express permission is given by the FIA Safety Delegate. The ban has been introduced on the grounds of safety because, the federation argues, the screens get in the way of escape routes and access to the pits for emergency services.

Although it is being assumed that the ban is only for Monaco the actual statement issued refers only to the 2002 FIA Formula 1 World Championship, which presumably means that the screens will be banned at other races as well.

This is great news for the fans and photographers but will annoy team bosses who complain that their cars are being photographed by rival teams.