F1 Drivers Face Million-Euro Fines After Rule Change

Formula One drivers, including Lewis Hamilton, could face fines of up to one million euros following a significant change to the sport’s rulebook.

The FIA, Formula One’s governing body, announced that the maximum fine that stewards can impose on a driver has been increased from 250,000 euros to 871,500 euros. The FIA stated that the previous fine limit, which had been in place for 12 years, no longer met the current needs of motorsports.

This decision surprised many drivers on the grid, with Daniel Ricciardo referring to it as “scary” and Kevin Magnussen of Haas branding it “ridiculous.” Lewis Hamilton, who recently signed a new £100 million two-year deal with Mercedes, proposed that if drivers were to be fined one million euros, the money should be directed toward a cause. Hamilton emphasized the need to increase diversity, improve access, and create more opportunities for underrepresented individuals in the motorsport industry.

In addition to the fine increase, the FIA has raised concerns about Lewis Hamilton’s status as a role model after he walked across the track at a previous race in Qatar. Hamilton was previously fined £43,350 for this incident, half of which is suspended for the remainder of the season.

The FIA is now reviewing Hamilton’s actions, expressing concern about the impression they may have on younger drivers, and is planning to meet with the seven-time world champion.

While Hamilton believes he was not singled out and that the situation resulted from poor communication, he acknowledged the importance of ensuring safety on the track. He emphasized that safety is paramount and that improvements need to be made in this regard.

Despite the review of his actions, Hamilton is unlikely to face additional penalties, and the FIA is not pursuing further legal action to increase his fine. However, stricter punishments may be implemented in the future for similar infringements.

Hamilton acknowledged the need for better communication between the drivers and the FIA to prevent such incidents from happening again.

The news also comes ahead of the United States Grand Prix, and Formula One drivers are reacting to these significant changes.

Source: AFP