Ferrari see the light

Improved pit system promised after Singapore debacle

Last updated: 6th January 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Ferrari see the light

Debacle: Massa's pitstop in Singapore

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Ferrari have decided to once again use their controversial 'traffic light' pitstop system this coming season, despite the damage it did to Felipe Massa's title hopes last year.

The Brazilian driver was leading the Singapore Grand Prix at the end of September prior to his opening pitstop, which was botched when the lights released Massa's car too soon.

With the refuelling rig still attached, Massa then moved off down the pitlane - the incident descending further into farce as Ferrari mechanics dashed after their car in order to detach it.

Massa rejoined the race but could only finish 13th. In the event, he lost the Drivers' Championship to Lewis Hamilton by a single point.

The Scuderia decided to "simplify" things after the debacle and switched to the traditional 'lollipop' system used by other teams for the final three races of the season.

However, after conducting a full investigation into the incident, Ferrari have said they will revert back to the light system this season.

"We can confirm our plan is to use the pit light system again. We will test the modifications soon and then see how we progress from there," a Ferrari spokesperson told autosport.com.

Ferrari team manager Luca Baldisserri told the Italian newspaper La Stampa: "We've analysed the mistakes made in 2008 and we've improved the system.

"An electronic programme will prevent the car from leaving when the fuel hose is still attached."