Traffic Woes Impact Sprint Qualifying at Miami Grand Prix
Yuki Tsunoda and Jack Doohan voiced strong concerns regarding traffic disruptions during the sprint qualifying (SQ1) at the Miami Grand Prix, causing significant repercussions for several drivers. Both Tsunoda and Doohan were eliminated in Q1, hampered by pitlane congestion.
Tsunoda, driving for Red Bull, reported that his initial lap was compromised when Haas driver Oliver Bearman exited the pits, forcing him to abort his fast lap. He also pointed to poor team communication, stating he was not adequately informed about the time constraints on his out-lap. "Some intelligent car just came out from the pit and I aborted my lap," Tsunoda remarked, reflecting his frustration with being blocked by traffic during crucial moments.
Doohan, representing Alpine, encountered a similar fate. He failed to fully navigate into the fast lane, leaving him stranded and requiring assistance from his mechanics. This issue coincided with teammate Pierre Gasly exiting the pits, which, according to Doohan, further obstructed his qualifying chances. "You know man, that’s not acceptable," he expressed in a heated radio exchange post-elimination, emphasizing the stakes of simultaneous pit releases.
Both drivers expressed hope for the upcoming sprint race despite being positioned far back on the grid. Tsunoda noted the unpredictable nature of the Miami circuit could still present opportunities, while Doohan aimed to gather data to improve his performance in the main race.
The controversy surrounding traffic during SQ1 has reignited discussions about qualifying protocols, emphasizing the critical balance of team strategy and driver autonomy in high-stakes settings.
