The FIA issued a note to the teams ahead of the third free practice session for the British Grand Prix to inform teams that a “zero tolerance” approach will be taken to cars leaving the track at the exit of Turn 9 (Copse).

“Further to the discussion in the drivers meeting yesterday evening I would like to inform all teams and drivers that we will be adopting a “zero tolerance” approach to cars leaving the track on the exit of turn 9 during qualifying,” read a statement from Race Director Charlie Whiting in a note to the teams.

“Unless we are satisfied that a driver left the track at this point for reasons beyond his control, having been forced off the track for example, every lap time achieved by leaving the track will be deleted in accordance with Article 12.3.1.d of the Sporting Code.”

Drivers will be referred to the stewards if it is found that a driver gained an advantage by running wide at Copse.

“During the race, any driver who appears to have gained a clear and lasting advantage by leaving the track at turn 9, or who repeatedly leaves the track at this corner, will be reported to the stewards.”