FIA admits human error left overtake mode unavailable in SQ1
The FIA confirmed human error in race control left overtake mode unavailable after an SQ1 red flag at the 2026 Singapore Grand Prix. Officials briefly restored the mode for 27 seconds before deactivating it again, creating unequal power conditions that affected some cars depending on their position and timing on track. SQ2 and SQ3 ran normally.
FIA statement details the sequence
The FIA issued a statement confirming a human error in race control during the first segment of Sprint Qualifying at the 2026 Singapore Grand Prix.[1] After a red flag for debris from Sergio Perez's Cadillac in SQ1, overtake mode remained unavailable on the restart. Race control then activated the mode for 27 seconds before deactivating it again. The governing body stated the error affected the performance of certain cars based on the timing of their runs and their position around the lap. SQ2 and SQ3 proceeded without issue.
Impact on session timing
Several drivers reported reduced power over team radio during the closing minutes of SQ1.[2] The brief activation window meant drivers on flying laps at different points on the circuit experienced unequal energy deployment from the hybrid system. The FIA noted the issue was separate from a concurrent timing-system fault that delayed the display of some lap times.
Related reading
https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/13596712/singapore-gp-fia-admits-human-error-created-power-disparity-in-sprint-qualifying-at-marina-bay-street-circuit https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/fia-error-left-some-drivers-without-full-power-in-sprint-qualifying/
- [1]Singapore GP: FIA admits 'human error' created power disparity in Sprint Qualifying at Marina Bay Street Circuit (skysports). Accessed 2026-10-10.
- [2]FIA error left some drivers without full power in sprint qualifying (therace). Accessed 2026-10-10.
- [3]Human error caused Singapore GP sprint qualifying glitch (motorsport). Accessed 2026-10-10.