Image source: GPFans
P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 champion rejects ‘ridiculous’ FIA penalty for first 2026 race
Valtteri Bottas ended the 2024 season with a snapped front suspension after a risky move on Kevin Magnussen. The consequences are still affecting him today, with a five-place grid penalty carried over to the 2026 season opener. Damon Hill criticized the penalty as ‘ridiculous’ in a recent Instagram post. Despite a rule change for 2026 wiping penalties after 12 months, Bottas’ penalty will still stand due to timing and FIA regulations. The FIA aims to prevent similar situations in the future with the regulation change. Mercedes’ recent actions and a potential Verstappen request provide additional F1 headlines.
