Breaking:FIA Issues Late Penalties After Controversial Miami Grand Prix, S…read more
FIA Issues Late Penalties After Controversial Miami Grand Prix, Shaking Up Final Results
Chaos followed controversy in the aftermath of the Miami Grand Prix as the FIA issued late penalties to multiple drivers, drastically altering the final race standings and stirring fresh debate across the Formula 1 paddock.
The penalties, confirmed in an official post-race bulletin, targeted incidents during the closing laps of the race that the stewards deemed in breach of the sporting regulations. Among the most notable decisions was a five-second penalty for Charles Leclerc, who was judged to have gained an advantage by exceeding track limits during a high-pressure battle with Oscar Piastri.
In a separate ruling, George Russell received a 10-second penalty for improper behavior during the Safety Car restart, with the FIA stating he failed to maintain the correct gap, which may have influenced overtaking opportunities behind him.
The revised results saw several drivers shifted in the final classification, with Lando Norris retaining his maiden victory but the midfield and lower points positions experiencing significant reshuffling. Russell, who originally crossed the line in P8, dropped out of the points entirely. Leclerc slipped from fourth to sixth.
Teams expressed frustration with the timing of the decisions. A spokesperson for Mercedes said, “We respect the FIA’s authority, but such late rulings disrupt the integrity of post-race celebrations and planning.”
The FIA defended its process, emphasizing the complexity of the incidents and the need for thorough review. However, the situation has reignited calls for more efficient and transparent officiating in Formula 1.
As the championship heads to Imola in two weeks, questions remain not just about the standings—but about the consistency of race control moving forward.
