Chaotic end to Adelaide quali

Chaotic end to Adelaide qualifying

Qualifying for the Australian Grand Prix was severely disrupted by heavy rain, with only 20 minutes of dry running possible before the session was interrupted by standing water at the first corner. The precipitation that followed left the track impassable, and the session was suspended after just 31 minutes.

The first part of the session saw a number of drivers struggle with aquaplaning, including Sebastian Vettel, who spun at the first corner and hit the barrier. Max Verstappen also had a spin at the same point, while Esteban Ocon was involved in a collision with Lance Stroll.

While the rain had caused chaos for the drivers, it had also helped to lift the spirits of the fans in attendance. The atmosphere at the circuit was lively, with many spectators donning colourful rain ponchos and taking advantage of the inclement weather to take photos and enjoy the atmosphere.

Just survived a massive spin at turn 1. Thankfully the car is okay. Not the best start to the day but let's focus on getting it sorted and getting a good lap in. #F1 #AussieGP

— Sebastian Vettel (@sebvettel) March 14, 2020

Despite the chaos caused by the rain, the biggest story of the day was the ongoing controversy surrounding the development of the new MGU-H. The power unit, which is designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, has been beset by problems since its introduction in 2015.

With just one year remaining before the new regulations come into effect, teams are under pressure to deliver a competitive power unit. The FIA has announced that a new set of technical regulations will be introduced in 2021, which will see the introduction of a new engine and a significant reduction in the number of engines that can be used per season.

The changes are designed to improve the sustainability of the sport and to make it more competitive. However, they have also been the subject of controversy, with some teams expressing concerns about the cost and complexity of the new regulations.

Resuming the session after a 90-minute delay, the field was given just 15 minutes to complete their final laps of the day. Pierre Gasly was the first to set a time, but his effort was quickly beaten by Max Verstappen.

Just got back out there and had a good run. Pleased with the result and looking forward to seeing what tomorrow brings. #F1 #AussieGP

— Pierre Gasly (@PierreGASLY) March 14, 2020

However, his efforts were ultimately undone by a late lap from Sebastian Vettel, who set a time of 1:21.520 to claim pole position.

The qualifying session was not without its controversies, with several drivers complaining about the conditions and the handling of the session.

Resuming the session after a 90-minute delay, the field was given just 15 minutes to complete their final laps of the day. Pierre Gasly was the first to set a time, but his effort was quickly beaten by Max Verstappen.

Author's summary

The Australian Grand Prix qualifying session was severely disrupted by heavy rain, with only 20 minutes of dry running possible before the session was interrupted by standing water at the first corner. The precipitation that followed left the track impassable, and the session was suspended after just 31 minutes. The chaos caused by the rain was mirrored by the controversy surrounding the development of the new MGU-H, with teams under pressure to deliver a competitive power unit before the new regulations come into effect in 2021.

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