F1: FIA set to ease radio limits immediately

The FIA is poised to open up radio communications to allow strategy calls to be made between Formula 1 teams and their drivers.

The expected decision will come into force with immediate effect for Sunday's Australian Grand Prix and follows complaints the new rules introduced for this season were too draconian. The FIA has opted to rigorously enforce article 27.1 of the sporting regulations that state "the driver must drive the car alone and unaided." It has resulted in a severe clampdown on radio traffic as FIA race director Charlie Whiting felt the messages and coaching from the pitwall had reached "an "intolerable level."

The likes of Red Bull team principal Christian Horner argued the FIA had potentially gone too far given there is often "entertainment through the radio."

After listening to the teams, the FIA looks set to decide strategy calls will now be permissible. It will allow teams and drivers to discuss options throughout the race rather than the latter simply relying on the former to plot a course without being able to offer any input.

It means conversations such as those in last year's Mexican Grand Prix, when Lewis Hamilton questioned his team's decision for him to pit as he felt his tires were in good shape, could potentially be heard.

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Originally on Autosport.com