P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Why FIA couldn’t help Ferrari with force majeure penalty waiver in Vegas F1 race
Carlos Sainz had to change his energy store in the FP1 session due to damage caused by running over a water valve cover. As a result, he received a 10-place penalty, which many felt was undeserved since the incident was beyond the control of Ferrari and the driver. Fernando Alonso also expressed sympathy and suggested that the penalty for such incidents should be reconsidered. Ferrari’s team boss, Fred Vasseur, requested a waiver from the stewards, arguing that a new energy store would not provide an advantage. However, the stewards were unable to void the penalty as there are no provisions in the rules for such circumstances. The issue may be discussed at the upcoming F1 Commission meeting in Abu Dhabi.
