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F1: Felipe Massa had head-start on Belgian grand prix grid

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Khatir Soltani
From GMM

Felipe Massa escaped penalty despite clearly getting a head-start in last Sunday's Belgian grand prix.

Before the five red lights went out at Spa-Francorchamps, BBC commentator Martin Brundle observed that the Ferrari was about "two metres" ahead of its starting area on the grid.

A spectator's amateur footage, posted on video sharing website Youtube, now supports Brundle's observation, but the Brazilian was not penalised by the stewards.

Image Youtube


Germany's Auto Motor und Sport said Massa, who finished the race in fourth place, was "at least 1 metre" ahead of his grid box.

Ferrari's post-race press release mentions neither Massa's grid error or the fact that he made up two early positions once the race had started.

The German report speculated that if FIA officials, or any of his competitors, had noticed the incident, Felipe Massa would probably have received a drive-through penalty.

Sensors in the grid boxes are supposed to ensure the cars' correct positioning as well as whether the competitor made a jump-start.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada