P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The FIA have confirmed that an F1 star will have to serve a penalty upon their return to the sport.
The FIA has confirmed that an F1 star will face a penalty upon their return to the sport due to a previous incident.
Valtteri Bottas is reportedly close to signing with new F1 team Cadillac for the 2026 season, but he might have to address a penalty from the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix involving Kevin Magnussen.
Bottas received a five-place grid penalty following the collision, and while initial rules suggested a penalty for his next race, new regulations raise questions on its application.
As per the revised regulations, Bottas may not serve the penalty upon his return in 2026, yet previous rulings remain unaffected, leading to a potential penalty confirmation.
An FIA spokesperson clarified that the penalty stands, noting the intention to prevent similar situations with the updated regulations for 2026.
Bottas is expected to serve the penalty if he rejoins F1 with Cadillac, with uncertainties surrounding his return and the team’s lineup for the upcoming season.
