F1 to introduce five-second penalties, more curfew jokers for 2014

Pending approval from the F1 Commission and the teams, the F1 Strategy Group decided at a meeting in Geneva, Switzerland that these penalties can be taken before work is carried out on a car during a pit stop. File Photo

Formula One is to introduce five-second penalties for certain offences from the upcoming season, the ruling body FIA said on Thursday night.

Pending approval from the F1 Commission and the teams, the F1 Strategy Group decided at a meeting in Geneva, Switzerland that these penalties can be taken before work is carried out on a car during a pit stop.

The five-second penalty gives race stewards more flexibility in imposing sanctions. Up to now, they could only impose drive-through penalties, which cost a racer around 20 seconds.

The Strategy Group also decided to give its team six so-called curfew “jokers” in 2014 instead of the previous two. The move was made in connection with major rule changes with new engines and cars. F1 has a six-hour curfew which lasts until three hours before the day’s first session, and eight hours on a Thursday.

The meeting, which included F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone, FIA president Jean Todt and team representatives, also agreed to present a cost-cutting plan to the World Motor Sport Council in June, for introduction in 2015.