FIA Clarifies Rules On 'Dangerous Racing Moves'

F1's ruling body has "clarified the rules on dangerous racing moves" by drivers defending a position in the heat of a race -- and "giving the benefit of the doubt to the man who is leading," according to the AFP. The ruling comes after several controversial incidents this year in which drivers have "vigorously defended their positions and in some cases forced challenging rivals off the circuit." Int'l Motoring Federation Race Dir Charlie Whiting said, "Any driver defending his position on a straight, and before any braking area, may use the full width of the track during his first move provided no significant portion of the car attempting to pass is alongside his. Whilst defending in this way, the driver may not leave the track without justifiable reason" (AFP, 7/15).