F1 racer may not be fined for speeding

Formula One racer David Coulthard and the organisers of the F1 show on the Bandra-Worli sealink may not be fined for speeding at 265 kmph.

Formula One racer David Coulthard and the organisers of the F1 show on the Bandra-Worli sealink may not be fined for speeding at 265 kmph.

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The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) said that although they had advised the organisers to avoid crossing the 100 kmph speed limit, they have decided not to levy a fine considering the condition of the car and Coulthard’s driving skills.

Although the sea link was closed to vehicular traffic during the event, MSRDC officials had asked the organisers to avoid breaching the speed limit to avert any damage to the sea link, in case the car crashed into the railings at high speeds.

“We checked the condition of the car and were satisfied that even if it crossed the 100-kmph mark, it wouldn’t cause damage to the sea link in case of an untoward incident,” said S. Sabnis, chief engineer, MSRDC.

He further clarified that Coulthard was a recognised Formula One racer and was used to driving such (F1 cars) vehicles at high speeds.

The MSRDC also said that, if at all, the Mumbai Traffic Police would be levying the fine. Mumbai Traffic Police Joint Commissioner Sanjay Barve said, “I will look into the matter before deciding if fine has to be levied for speeding.”

Coulthard was in the city to promote Red Bull F1 Racing and completed the 5.6-km stretch in less than 3 minutes. Formula One cars are designed to touch speeds well above the 300 kmph mark.