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 in hot water with FIA race officials during the Monaco Grand Prix weekend, as investigations into red flag incidents led to disciplinary action. Carlos Sainz, representing Ferrari in the main Formula 1 event, and Franco Colapinto, competing in the Formula 2 support series, were both scrutinized for potentially violating red flag regulations during critical sessions on the tight, unforgiving Monte Carlo circuit.

The drama unfolded during Saturday’s third and final free practice session, just hours ahead of the highly anticipated Monaco GP qualifying. The red flag was waved in the closing moments of FP3 following a crash involving Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton. As marshals scrambled to clear the track and ensure safety, all cars were expected to immediately reduce speed and return to the pits, in accordance with FIA regulations regarding red flags.

However, it appears that not all drivers followed the strict protocols to the letter. One of the names that surfaced quickly was Franco Colapinto, the promising young Argentine racer currently participating in the FIA Formula 2 Championship. Colapinto was reported to have failed to slow down adequately after the red flag was deployed. Race stewards launched a full investigation into his actions, analyzing telemetry, on-board footage, and team radio messages.

After reviewing the evidence, the stewards determined that Colapinto had indeed breached the rules governing red flag periods. His lack of prompt response was deemed a safety risk, resulting in a penalty that could impact his grid position or points tally in the F2 standings. The precise sanction imposed was not immediately disclosed, but it sends a clear message about the importance of adhering to track safety measures.

Carlos Sainz, the experienced Ferrari driver and former Monaco Grand Prix podium finisher, also found himself under the microscope. While the exact details of his incident were not initially clear, it was believed to be a similar breach involving the red flag triggered by Hamilton’s crash. Given the layout of the Monaco track—narrow, with limited runoff areas—drivers must exercise extreme caution under red flag conditions. Any failure to do so is treated with utmost seriousness by the FIA.

Sainz’s case was also examined thoroughly, with stewards reviewing data from his SF-24 car. Ferrari team officials were seen discussing the matter with race control, possibly presenting mitigating factors or evidence in defense of their driver. Nevertheless, race control later confirmed that Sainz had committed a violation and would receive an official reprimand or sporting penalty.

These incidents underscore the uncompromising nature of FIA’s enforcement of safety protocols, particularly in high-risk environments like Monaco. With its winding streets and close barriers, even minor errors can lead to major consequences—both in terms of race outcomes and driver safety.

For Colapinto, who is aiming to impress enough to earn a full-time F1 seat in the future, the penalty represents a learning opportunity as much as a setback. For Sainz, a seasoned driver with much at stake in the 2025 driver market, the incident adds unwanted pressure in a season already full of speculation about his future.

The Monaco Grand Prix remains one of the most iconic and challenging races on the F1 calendar, and this year’s edition proved no different. With qualifying always a critical part of the weekend due to the difficulty of overtaking on the narrow street circuit, any penalties handed out before the race can have a massive impact on a driver’s weekend.

As teams prepare for the next round, both Colapinto and Sainz will no doubt be more cautious when it comes to red flag protocols. The FIA’s swift and firm decisions serve as a reminder that safety is paramount in motorsport—regardless of a driver’s status or the session in which a violation occurs.