No helmet rule for F1 pitlane media - FOM

Jul.27 (GMM) Photographers and reporters still allowed in the pitlane during F1 track sessions do not have to wear a helmet.

After a flying wheel left a FOM cameraman in hospital after the recent German grand prix, F1 authorities clamped down on pitlane safety.

Access to media was severely limited, and team members in the pitlane all forced to now wear a helmet.

But does the new helmet rule also apply to the media?

"No, not yet," FOM spokeswoman Suzanne Eyre is quoted by the Kolner Express newspaper.

"We are working on a safe solution that doesn't interfere with their work," she added.

The newspaper said FOM has installed fixed cameras on the pitwall and the pit building in Hungary.

And the injured cameraman Paul Allen is quoted as saying: "I'm doing well so far.

"I hope to be in Singapore."

Another FOM cameraman, Uwe Hohls, said: "It's good that safety is continuously improved, but we all know that working in motor sport is always dangerous."