One of the main Formula 1 teams in the field has been fined following the Brazilian Grand Prix, won by Max Verstappen.
After a thorough investigation, the FIA has decided not to sanction the two Mercedes drivers for an infraction concerning tire pressures during the Brazilian Grand Prix in Sao Paulo.
The Mercedes team, accused of having adjusted the pressures after having fitted the wheels on the single-seaters, was able to benefit from extenuating circumstances linked to the chaos of the organization of the start.
Explanations from Mercedes to the commissioners
Representatives of the Mercedes team were summoned by the FIA to clarify the broken procedure. The atypical course of the day, marked by interruptions and timing adjustments, contributed to chaotic preparation. This confusion made it difficult to rigorously apply the usual protocols, a key point in Mercedes' defense.
After the initial interruption to the start, only ten minutes' notice had been given for the new start, further complicating the logistics for Mercedes. The FIA said that, given the layout of the circuit and the delay in accessing the grid from the pits, the Brackley team had encountered significant challenges. Indeed, the gate access to the grid had not been opened immediately, which made access for last minute adjustments more complex.
According to the FIA report: “The gate to the grid was not opened immediately. The FIA recognized that, given this short delay, it was extremely difficult, if not impossible, for the teams to follow the procedure prescribed by the technical directive .”
Mitigating circumstances, key to a fine rather than a sanction
Given the logistical constraints and the tight timing, the FIA ultimately judged that these elements constituted mitigating circumstances for Mercedes. The commissioners concluded:
“Given the unusual circumstances surrounding the compressed schedule, the interrupted start, the logistics of access to the grid and taking into account the technical delegate's stipulation that the tire pressures were within the correct parameters, the stewards determine that a fine for breach of procedure is appropriate in this case.”
The FIA thus chose to limit itself to a fine of 5,000 euros rather than a sporting penalty, indicating that this decision was linked to the unique nature of the incident. However, the stewards clarified that this was in no way a precedent: any future infractions would be treated without leniency, the circumstances of the Brazilian Grand Prix in Sao Paulo being considered exceptional.
A management lesson for teams
This decision highlights the importance for teams to remain ready to face unforeseen events, especially in conditions as chaotic as those of the Brazilian Grand Prix. Although Mercedes escaped a sporting sanction, the FIA reminds that compliance with procedures remains a top priority, even in emergency situations.
