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Formula 1’s stewards’ penalty guidelines and its driving standards’ documents have been revealed in full for the first time. Here’s what you need to know
The full details of Formula 1’s stewards’ penalty guidelines and driving standards’ documents have been disclosed for the first time, shedding light on the governing body’s approach to handling rule violations in the sport. This move aims to provide transparency amidst concerns from drivers about the lack of communication regarding rules. The documents outline a comprehensive ‘menu’ system for penalties, covering all potential breaches and offering guidance on penalty severity for various types of offenses during practice, qualifying, and races. Mandatory sanctions exist for specific violations such as breaches of parc ferme rules or overtaking behind the safety car, limiting stewards’ discretion in certain situations. Penalties can vary based on the severity of the offense, with sliding scales ensuring proportional sanctions, such as a five-second penalty for minor infractions and a more severe stop-and-go penalty for major rule breaches.
The guidelines indirectly address scenarios like Max Verstappen’s clash with George Russell, clarifying the distinctions in penalties based on intent. Verstappen received a standard 10-second penalty for his incident with Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix, an outcome that sparked debates on the adequacy of the punishment. The guidelines highlight the difference between unintentional collisions, collisions with minimal sporting consequences, and collisions caused by deliberate or reckless intent. Deliberate actions carry heavier penalties, potentially leading to a 10-second stop-and-go penalty, a 30-second time penalty, and additional license penalty points. This clarification underscores the severity of intentional rule violations, ensuring fair and consistent enforcement within Formula 1.
