This functionality needs to be preserved so certain applications can follow efficient workflows. An example of this can be found in a django admin site where a

This functionality needs to be preserved so certain applications can follow efficient workflows. An example of this can be found in a django admin site where a new modal is launched to enter a foreign key relationship, this would be unwieldy & distracting if it were to open in a new tab, taking the user away from information that may help them in making a choice and disrupting their flow.