The FIA has attributed the controversial safety car finish at the 2026 Formula 1 British Grand Prix to a software error.
The incident occurred on the final lap after Max Verstappen crashed into the Stowe gravel trap with six laps remaining, prompting a safety car deployment.
Race control initiated standard unlapping procedures for lapped cars on the penultimate lap.
Although regulations require one additional lap after unlapping, the automated system incorrectly broadcasted a departure message.
Race control corrected the prompt eight seconds later, forcing the safety car to remain on track and sealing Charles Leclerc's victory.
FIA Clarifies Regulation Compliance
The governing body explained that the Safety Car period regulation, Article B5.13.5, states that one lap must be completed following the unlapping procedure.
This process was followed by Race Operations.
The 'Safety Car In This Lap' message was displayed erroneously due to a software error, the FIA said.
The neutralized finish allowed George Russell to secure second place for Mercedes, while Lewis Hamilton finished third.
The incident revived scrutiny surrounding late-race restarts following the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix finale.
