TWO F1 stars handed huge FIA penalty verdict at....

TWO F1 stars handed huge FIA penalty verdict at….read more

Two Formula 1 drivers found themselves under scrutiny from the FIA during the Monaco Grand Prix weekend, as both Franco Colapinto and Carlos Sainz were summoned by race stewards due to separate incidents involving red flag violations.

Franco Colapinto, the Argentine rookie competing in Formula 2, was investigated after an incident that occurred during the final practice session on Saturday. This session, held on the legendary Monte Carlo street circuit, was abruptly halted in its closing moments due to a crash involving seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. The red flag was immediately deployed as a result of the incident to ensure the safety of the drivers and marshals on track.

According to reports, Colapinto was alleged to have breached FIA regulations related to red flag procedures. Under normal circumstances, when a red flag is shown, all drivers are required to reduce speed significantly and return to the pit lane in a safe and controlled manner. The incident involving Colapinto raised questions over whether he failed to comply with these rules, which prompted race officials to launch an investigation.

Meanwhile, Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz was also summoned to the stewards’ office, though for an incident that took place earlier in the weekend during Friday’s Free Practice 2 (FP2). The Spaniard, who has a history of strong performances around the tight and twisty streets of Monaco, reportedly failed to adhere to red flag conditions during that session.

Sainz’s alleged infraction involved driving behavior under red flag conditions, a serious matter in the eyes of the FIA. Like in Colapinto’s case, the red flag was waved due to an on-track incident that required immediate attention from race marshals. Stewards examined video evidence and telemetry data to determine whether Sainz slowed down sufficiently and acted in accordance with safety protocols.

Both drivers’ infractions, though taking place in different categories and at different times, highlight how seriously the FIA treats any potential breach of red flag rules. These regulations are among the most critical in motorsport, ensuring the safety of everyone involved when unexpected events, such as crashes or debris on the circuit, occur.

Red flag violations can result in a range of penalties, from reprimands and fines to grid penalties or even disqualification, depending on the severity of the breach. The FIA’s goal is to maintain the highest standards of safety and discipline, and race officials are known for adopting a zero-tolerance stance when it comes to lapses in driver responsibility during red flag periods.

As of now, neither Colapinto nor Sainz has been officially penalized, but both cases are under careful examination. The stewards are expected to deliver a formal verdict based on the available data and testimonies from the involved drivers and their teams. Should either be found in breach of the regulations, penalties will likely be announced before the start of Sunday’s race.

The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious and challenging races on the F1 calendar, and the spotlight on compliance with rules is especially intense due to the narrow layout of the circuit and limited run-off areas. Any infraction, no matter how minor, can have amplified consequences given the unique nature of the track.

In conclusion, the investigations into Colapinto and Sainz serve as a reminder of the importance of strict adherence to race protocols, especially under red flag conditions. As the Monaco weekend continues, all eyes will be on the stewards’ decisions and the potential implications for both drivers moving forward in their respective championships.