Phil wrote: ↑11 Sep 2019, 16:33
Self policed, means that if a crash happens as a result of overstepping certain limits, it ultimately can/will punishes both through damage, loss of position, or maybe even a DNF.
If there isnt a crash or damage, there’s no lasting consequence to the race and result.
In the Leclerc / Hamilton "push off" incident, Hamilton could have had damage done to his car - the floor, bargeboards or even suspension - whilst Leclerc could have got away with no damage at all. Where is the self policing in that situation?
Hamilton (or any other driver in the same situation) has a right to be there because he positioned his car early and took the space, and the inside line driver has a right to defend. But defending by putting someone on the grass, in the braking zone, is not correct. Leclerc should have defended by going slightly long in to the corner, not allowing Hamilton the chance to swoop around the outside, or even, at that chicane, allow him the use of the cut back. Such defence requires subtle skill to get right, but if done makes the outside driver decide either to back out of it or go across the kerb. That's reasonable defence. Pushing someone on to the grass in the braking zone isn't.
It's the difference between skilled racing and hamfisted racing-sim racing.
I do think that if, once the title is his, the situation is repeated Hamilton won't move over next time. He'll let Leclerc come across and hit him. Even if both escape without a crash/damage, Leclerc will get a penalty for causing a collision - something the stewards are still not impressed with. That will remind Leclerc that close racing requires respect from both drivers.
If you are more fortunate than others, build a larger table not a taller fence.
...Not talking about that far back.
