F1 is considering introducing the IndyCar red flag rule after the Leclerc crash

Qualifying for the Monaco Grand Prix was interrupted by Charles Leclerc’s fall on his final lap and ended prematurely when he secured Ferrari a shock pole position.

The incident prevented several drivers, including Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who was once up in the Leclerc sector, from improving on their final flying laps in Q3.

This led to suggestions in the paddock that F1 should implement a rule used in the American IndyCar and IMSA series, according to which drivers who set red flags have their lap times erased so they cannot unfairly disadvantage their competitors.

Leclerc’s closest rivals in qualifying insisted that it was fair for the Monegasque to keep their pole despite their respective frustrations of missing out.

F1 Race Director Michael Masi confirmed after the race on Sunday that the FIA ​​will be looking at whether an IndyCar-style rule could be a suitable option for the introduction of the World Championship.

“Like everything, when everything comes up, the FIA, Formula 1 and the teams look at everything and consider it their merits,” said Masi.

On the subject of matching items

“Yes, I know the IndyCar rule, which also applies in a number of other international FIA series and national championships around the world.

“We will look at it and decide together with all the key stakeholders whether it is suitable or not.”

Masi also revealed that race officials had been investigating Leclerc’s qualifying crash to make sure there was no foul in the game, but quickly concluded that it was not intended.

On the subject of matching items

“The incident was immediately investigated by the race management,” explained Masi. “It was very clear to us that the first part at Turn 15 was a mistake.

“After looking at that, looking at the data and also listening to the team communication, I don’t think that a driver would damage his car so badly under any circumstances because of the resulting consequences.”