This time on #FutureStarFriday we look at a case that has dominated the junior single-seater ladder in recent days – Dan Ticktum’s ban.
Ticktum’s ban came about after MSA Formula’s third race at Silverstone, starting from contact with eventual runner-up Ricky Collard. After a string of events, both drivers could rejoin thanks to the safety car, but Ticktum would be at the back of the pack.
In a heat of the moment, Ticktum lost it and flew past 13 yellow flags, four double-yellow flags, two white flags and 15 safety car boards to overtake 10 cars. The result was that Ticktum took revenge and made contact with Collard, and the MSA have given him a one-year ban, with a second year if any other incidents occur in the first year.
But what does that mean for Dan Ticktum? Is all hope of his Formula One dream lost?
No, not quite.
What is important to note is that the ban only applies to MSA events meaning Ticktum could still compete in Europe, in championships such as various European F4, European F3, Formula Renault, etc. This would make the most sense for the young Brit if he can calm his aggressive on-track behavior, as there is no better way to repair your reputation than to beat some of the best young drivers in Europe on track, and should Ticktum keep his Red Bull backing then he stands a shot at impressing some of the top teams in Europe, but perhaps not Arden.
Alternatively, the ban does not rule out testing, so Ticktum could, in theory, spend his year off testing some higher machinery and launch a different kind of assault on a championship in 2017. Whether he stays with Fortec and attempts an MSA Formula comeback or moves elsewhere, Ticktum can still get track time to prepare for his return.
Critics of Ticktum have came to the conclusion that his actions are the result of too much money and not enough talent, despite the fact that Daniel had multiple race wins and podiums over the season. Ticktum has a reputation for being an aggressive driver and while it does not excuse his actions, his style and overtaking in normal circumstances are thrilling to watch. However, Ticktum does need to reign in his aggression, as he was disqualified at Croft for spinning out Lando Norris for the race lead.
What does it mean for other young drivers, though?
Simply put, it was a message from the MSA. They will not tolerate risking the lives and safety of other drivers for petty revenge. In addition, Ticktum’s actions endangered the lives and well-being of several marshals at the circuit, volunteers who have given up their time for the sport they love to help clean up after accidents like Ticktum.
An interesting comparison is the stance that NASCAR had on when a similar incident to this occurred, where Matt Kenseth deliberately wrecked Joey Logano to take revenge, however Kenseth was a lap down at that point. Many fans Stateside saw a two-race ban as “too harsh”, however, many British NASCAR followers felt he got off lightly. It would have been interesting to see the punishment if the incident happened on a British circuit.
Ticktum has been made an example of, and for good reason. His actions were reckless, but it is more than just a punishment. The MSA push for the safest possible motorsport environment and Ticktum’s punishment can be used to educate other young drivers that deliberately ignoring rules and taking someone out is not acceptable on track. All everyone can do is learn from this, Ticktum accepted his actions were dangerous and did apologize, but may suffer in the long run as teams may not want him despite his natural talent. As fans, we can use this to gauge the consistency of the MSA and their punishments and the no-nonsense attitude they are using is definitely the way forward for a safer sport. Finally, it reiterates to drivers that revenge and rivalries should be kept off the track, and anything deemed unsporting will be punished severely.
It is a shame that one of the fastest youngsters in the UK could have jeopardized his career over petty revenge but I for one think it will make Ticktum hungry for success, and I look forward to seeing him back in action once his ban is over.
