F1 Champion Slapped With $23,000 Fine After Late Arrival During National Anthem in Japan, Despite Medical Need

The Japanese Grand Prix was held at the Suzuka Circuit on Sunday.
One driver was was not present as the national anthem commenced
He suffered from abdominal pain and received medical attention.

A Formula One driver has been slapped with a hefty fine after arriving late for the national anthem ceremony prior to Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix.

Carlos Sainz , who competes for Williams, needed medical assistance prior to the race due to difficulties with a stomach problem.

Formula 1 drivers have to adhere to a rigorous timetable on race day and must be present for the playing of the host nation's national anthem out of respect.

Although the stewards acknowledged that Sainz had a legitimate explanation for being late, they decided that imposing a diminished fine of £17,000 was warranted, with half of this amount deferred for twelve months.

A penalty of £51,000 is typically imposed for this offense, and the FIA issued a statement to clarify their decision.

"The stewards listened to statements from the driver of car number 55 (Carlos Sainz), the team representative, and Dr. Messina from Med-Ex, and also examined video evidence," the statement said.

The driver reached the national anthem position once the anthem had started.

At the Drivers' Meeting held on Friday, all participants were advised about the necessity of being in their designated spots before the time specified in the rules and emphasized the importance of showing reverence towards the national anthem of the host nation.

As stated in Appendix B of the FIA International Sporting Code, a fine of €60,000 is specified as the penalty for this infraction.

Nevertheless, in consideration of mitigating factors, the Driver mentioned that before the Anthem began, he felt some distress from a stomach problem, which caused him to be late for his position on the starting grid.

This was confirmed by Dr Messina from Med-Ex, who acknowledged the problem and mentioned that he had administered the necessary medication to the driver.

Despite this, showing reverence for the National Anthem is of utmost importance, and all participants must take into account every possible scenario to ensure they are ready for the Anthem at the designated time.

'Thus, a penalty akin to that levied for a comparable violation in Canada during 2024 is enforced.'

'All competitors should remember that they have the option to contest specific rulings made by the Stewards, as outlined in Article 15 of the FIA International Sporting Code and Section 4 of the FIA Judicial and Disciplinary Rules, provided they do so within the specified timeframe.'

In the end, Sainz secured the 14th position in the race. Max Verstappen emerged victorious for the first time this season, followed by Lando Norris in second place and Oscar Piastri completing the podium spot.