Herbert fined for pit-lane misdemeanor

BRITON Johnny Herbert was hit with a $3000 fine after a pit-lane misdemeanor during Friday's free practice ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka.

Jaguar driver Herbert was clocked at 72kph - 12kph above the limit - and his error was the 26th case of pit-lane speeding this year. It was the veteran's first offence of the season.

Meanwhile, FIA safety delegate Charlie Whiting has moved the pitlane entry to beyond the final chicane at Suzuka.

In previous years, drivers had entered the pitlane before the chicane but Whiting moved the entry point to reduce the speed at which drivers would enter and also limit the risk of injury to drivers on the Armco barriers.