Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz received a substantial penalty for arriving tardy to the national anthem ceremony during the Japanese Grand Prix.
Despite this, the Williams driver had a legitimate reason since they became sick right before the event and needed to see the track physician.
Max Verstappen secured his initial victory of the season at Suzuka on Sunday, fending off the competition from the McLaren pair. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri .
In reality, it was quite an unexciting Grand Prix, as the conditions made it difficult for drivers to execute many passes, which Yuki Tsunoda's Red Bull debut was ruined. .
The race was equally forgettable for Sainz, who began from the 15th position following a penalty for impeding Sirrocco. Lewis Hamilton In qualification and managed to secure only the 14th position, whereas their teammate did better. Alex Albon scored points again.
However, the Spaniard's weekend took a turn for the worse when he was called before the stewards and consequently hit with a fine of €20,000 (£17,000) for failing to attend the pre-race national anthem.
Drivers must stand at the front of the grid during the national anthem performance, which takes place shortly before the commencement of each Grand Prix.
Sainz missed the beginning of the event because he went to the medical center due to stomach pain, yet this would garner him minimal empathy from the FIA.
'During the drivers' meeting on Friday, all participants were informed about the obligation to be in their designated places by the time specified in the rules and the importance of showing reverence for the national anthem of the host nation,' the stewards stated.
As stated in Appendix B of the FIA International Sporting Code, the Penalty Guidelines specify a fine of €60,000 for this offense.
Nevertheless, in consideration of his circumstances, the driver mentioned that before the national anthem began, he felt some distress from a stomach problem, causing him to be late in appearing on the starting grid. This delay was corroborated by Dr. Messina from Med-Ex, who acknowledged the issue and noted that he had administered suitable medication to address the driver’s condition.
'Nevertheless, showing respect for the national anthem is of utmost importance, and all parties must account for every possibility in their planning to ensure they are ready for the anthem at the designated time. Therefore, a penalty akin to those enforced for comparable violations should be considered.' Canada in 2024, is imposed.’
Although the stewards reduced the penalty, it remains twice as much as what Tsunoda was charged for arriving late at the national anthem in Montreal last year.
Formula 1 championship rankings following the Japanese Grand Prix
- Lando Norris (McLaren) – 62 points
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull) - 61 points
- Oscar Piastri (McLAREN) – 49 PTS
- George Russell (Mercedes) – 45 pts
- Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) – 30 points
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) – 20 pts
- Alex Albon (Williams) – 18 points
- Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) – 15 points
- Esteban Ocon (Haas) – 10 points
- Lance Stroll (Aston Martin) – 10 points
Should Sainz avoid breaking the same regulations within the coming year, half of his fine will be waived.
This event could be seen as an indication of the FIA implementing more rigorous rules regarding drivers' behavior, with the motorsports regulatory body bringing in new measures. contentious and highly disliked oath prohibition prior to the 2025 season.
"Despite the anticipated challenges, it turned out to be a tough race today with significant time spent in traffic following a pricey Saturday. However, I believe our speed was adequate," wrote the ex-McLaren and Ferrari driver Sainz on Twitter.
'I felt at ease with the car and successfully executed some impressive overtake maneuvers. We'll continue to build on this momentum. Next up is Bahrain!'
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