A Formula 1 driver was slapped with a heavy fine after his arrival late for the national anthem ceremony before the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday.
Carlos Sainz, who runs for Williams, needed medical care before the race after struggling with a stomach problem.
F1 drivers are required to follow a strict calendar on the day of the race and must be present to respect the national anthem of the host country.
While the commissioners admitted that Sainz had a valid reason for its delay, they still thought that a reduced fine of £ 17,000 was necessary, half of which was suspended for a year.
A fine of £ 51,000 is what a driver would generally receive for the offense and the FIA published a declaration to explain his decision.
“The commissioners heard the driver of the car 55 (Carlos Sainz), the team representative and Dr Messina of Med-Ex, and examined the video evidence,” he said.
A driver was missing while the national anthem started before the Grand Prix on Sunday
Carlos Sainz (center) arrived late after needing medical care due to a stomach problem
“The driver arrived at the national anthem after the start of the anthem.”
“During the pilot briefing, all drivers were recalled to the obligation to be in a position according to the moment prescribed in the regulations and the need to be respect for the hymn of the host country.
“It should be noted that the guidelines on the sanctions prescribed in Annex B of the FIA International Sporting Code, indicate a sanction for this offense, of € 60,000.” However, in attenuation, the driver said that before the anthem, he experienced discomfort due to a stomach problem that delayed his appearance on the grid.
“This was verified by Dr Messina of Med-Ex who confirmed the problem and said that he had provided appropriate drugs for the driver.”
“Notwithstanding the above, displaying respect for the national anthem is a high priority and all parties must consider each possibility in planning to be in the hymn position by the required time.”
“Hence a penalty similar to that imposed for a violation similar in Canada in 2024, is imposed.”
“We remind competitors that they have the right to call on certain decisions of the commissioners, in accordance with article 15 of the International Sports Code of the FIA and in chapter 4 of the judicial and disciplinary rules of the FIA, within the applicable deadlines.”
Sainz finally finished the race in the 14th row while Max Verstappen won his first victory of the season with Lando Norris in second and Oscar Piastri behind him.