Breaking: FIA issue late penalty verdict for TWO F1 stars following…..read more 

FIA issue late penalty verdict for TWO F1 stars following…..read more 

Following the conclusion of the 2025 Miami Grand Prix, the FIA released a delayed but critical update regarding an investigation involving two Formula 1 drivers—Carlos Sainz of Williams and Pierre Gasly of Alpine. Both drivers had come under scrutiny after allegedly failing to adhere to yellow flag regulations during the race. Specifically, the stewards were investigating a possible violation of Article 2.5.5 b) of the International Sporting Code, which mandates that drivers must slow down when yellow flags are displayed, indicating a potential hazard on the track.

After the race, both Sainz and Gasly were summoned by the race stewards to provide explanations for their behavior during the yellow flag period. The stewards carefully reviewed footage and telemetry data to determine whether either driver had inappropriately maintained speed or failed to demonstrate the necessary caution required under such conditions.

According to the FIA’s statement, both drivers admitted during the hearing that they did not slow down for the yellow flag. Notably, they also claimed not to have seen the yellow flag or noticed any stationary car on the circuit. The stewards took into account their testimonies as well as all available video evidence and race data. Upon further analysis, the footage revealed that the yellow flag in question had been shown only from a single marshal post. Moreover, this flag was displayed against a yellow background, and in an extremely fast section of the track—factors that likely contributed to the drivers’ inability to perceive the signal in time.

Given these considerations, the stewards decided not to impose any penalties on either Sainz or Gasly. The final decision noted that, although the drivers did not reduce speed as required under yellow flag conditions, the visibility and placement of the flag were not ideal. The steward’s statement highlighted that such situational factors could have reasonably impacted the drivers’ awareness and reaction times, leading to the conclusion that no further disciplinary action was warranted.

As a result of the ruling, both drivers have retained their original finishing positions from the race. Carlos Sainz holds onto ninth place, securing two valuable championship points for Williams, while Pierre Gasly remains in thirteenth place, which unfortunately yields no points but avoids a potential penalty that could have dropped him further down the order.

This development was part of a broader set of post-race assessments conducted by the FIA, as is customary in Formula 1 events. The delayed nature of the verdict led to some uncertainty in the final classification of the Miami Grand Prix, but the announcement ultimately confirmed that the race results would stand as originally recorded, at least with respect to these two drivers.

The incident underscores the challenges that both drivers and officials face in high-speed racing environments, especially when it comes to the visibility and timing of safety signals. It also serves as a reminder of the critical importance of clear flag signaling and situational awareness in maintaining the safety and integrity of Formula 1 races. While no action was taken in this case, the FIA may use this as an opportunity to review flagging procedures and ensure such situations are avoided in future races.