Max Verstappen does not receive any penalties for obstructing Kevin Magnussen
The FIA has summoned Max Verstappen and the representatives of Red Bull, as well as Kevin Magnussen and those of Haas, for unnecessarily obstructing the Danish driver during the qualifying session of the Austrian Grand Prix.
During the qualifying session, the FIA declared that Max Verstappen had unnecessarily hindered Kevin Magnussen in turn 1, a presumed violation of article 37.5 of the FIA Formula 1 Sporting Regulations. As a result, they have decided to summon both parties.
After examining the available evidence, including the testimonies of the two pilots, team representatives, as well as the positioning and signaling system data, videos, timing, telemetry, team radio, and onboard videos, the FIA has decided not to impose any sanctions against the double world champion.
According to the report, Max Verstappen stated that he saw a car approaching after crossing the finish line at the end of his fast lap, and he moved to the left side of the track after exiting turn 1. On the other hand, Kevin Magnussen claimed that he had to move to the right to avoid Verstappen’s car, which resulted in a loss of time on his fast lap.
After examining the video and audio evidence, the commissioners found that Kevin Magnussen had touched the kerb in turn 1, which caused a slight modification in acceleration, and consequently, a slightly slower time in the following mini-sectors. However, the commissioners also determined that the Danish driver did not have to take any significant evasive actions.
Max Verstappen retains his pole position for the start of the Grand Prix on Sunday, as this Saturday is entirely dedicated to the Sprint, first with the shootout at noon, then with the race at 4:30 pm.
