The rear wing controversy not only highlighted the seriousness of the FIA rules, it ironically made a lot of jokes. While the FIA has warned the drivers of more serious consequences for violating the Parc Ferme rules, all eyes were on one man: Sebastian Vettel. Better known as Inspector Seb, the driver made the conversation very funny over the weekend.
ADVERTISING
Article continues under this ad
When Vettel stopped his Aston Martin behind Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes, the infamous rear wing stared straight at him. “I’m going to touch Hamilton’s rear wing,” said the pit wall. With reference to the 50,000 euros fine imposed on Max Verstappen, Vettel’s race engineer warned him about the costs.
ADVERTISING
Article continues under this ad
However, since he is the funny man, Vettel has found a solution. “I’ll try the front wing, maybe 25 grand.” Though likely less controversial, with the FIA Police Parc ferme perhaps Inspector Seb’s best time to go on vacation.
Mercedes also advised Vettel to stay away from the expensive machine, which makes the whole situation a little easier.
Do not touch. 
– Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@ MercedesAMGF1) November 13, 2021
Sebastian Vettel and his infamous Parc Ferme antics
When the stewards suggested Verstappen because he had touched the rear wing of the W12, all eyes were on Sebastian Vettel. The man more than violated the regulations surrounding Parc Ferme by jumping and pushing cars around to test them.
Already in 2018, at the Russian GP, you can see a red-clad Vettel pushing a Mercedes with his foot. Certainly worse compared to Verstappen’s thumb! In addition, an FIA employee quietly watches as Vettel collects the information he needs.
ADVERTISING
Article continues under this ad
This isn’t the only time Vettel has had fun at Parc Ferme when he infamously switched boards to prove a point. Regardless, if 50 grand were the penalty for touching the rear wing, Vettel would have a lot more to dump if he pushed W12s today!
Nonetheless, the FIA has found that despite strict regulations governing Parc Ferme procedures, drivers have a tendency to check their cars or the other cars. While minor, such acts are usually harmless but can be considered tampering.
ADVERTISING
Article continues under this ad
Since the competition only comes together, there can be no room for error. While Verstappen got through the situation unscathed, the FIA is reminding drivers that their forbearance will not be repeated.
Check out this story: How much does an F1 car cost?
The post WATCH: Vettel sends Aston Martin F1 with a cheeky Lewis Hamilton reference in laughter first appeared on monter-une-startup.
