Williams driver Carlos Sainz has called on Formula 1's leading drivers to show greater understanding towards backmarkers when they are required to move aside under blue flags.
As reported by İdman.Biz, citing RacingNews365, the Spanish driver explained that the substantial performance gap between cars can make it extremely difficult for slower drivers to judge when to let faster competitors through.
According to Sainz, the difference in lap times between front-running teams and those further down the grid can reach three or four seconds, creating unpredictable situations during races.
"We are doing everything we can. The problem is the huge difference in speed between the leading cars and ours. It can be three or four seconds per lap, so when you are planning to let someone through, they might catch you much sooner than expected, or the opposite might happen," Sainz explained.
The former Ferrari driver also drew on his experience of competing at both ends of the Formula 1 grid, stressing that his current situation has given him a different perspective on blue-flag incidents.
"I have been on both sides of this situation. During my years at Ferrari, I was the one lapping other cars, and now I am the one being lapped. I can tell you that letting the leaders through is not easy.
"That is why I ask for some understanding. From the outside, everything looks much simpler than it actually is," he added.
Under Formula 1 regulations, blue flags warn drivers that a faster car is approaching to lap them, requiring them to allow the leading competitor to pass at the earliest opportunity.
Sainz believes greater awareness of the challenges faced by slower cars could help reduce misunderstandings and frustration between drivers during races.
