Carlos Sainz summoned by the stewards for a surprising reason
The Japanese Grand Prix turned out to be a bit of a nightmare for Carlos Sainz, who not only had a difficult race, but was also summoned twice by the stewards.
Carlos Sainz finished the race in 14th place, one position better than his starting point, despite being under investigation twice for cutting the circuit’s chicane. However, the stewards decided that a more in-depth investigation was not necessary regarding these incidents.
Complications began as early as the qualification phase. After initially qualifying in 12th position, the Spaniard was handed a three-place grid penalty for obstructing Lewis Hamilton in the first corner.
After the race, Carlos Sainz was summoned to explain his delay to the national anthem ceremony, a mandatory event that takes place 14 minutes before the start of the Grand Prix.
Hefty fine for being late to the national anthem
This last infraction cost the Williams driver a €20,000 fine imposed by the stewards. Half of this fine was suspended, on the condition that he does not make the same mistake in the next 12 months.
The commissioners emphasized the importance of respecting the national anthem, reminding that the drivers had been reminded of the obligation to be in position at the time prescribed by the regulations and the need to respect the host country’s anthem.
The Spaniard justified himself by explaining that he had a problem with stomach pains, which was confirmed by a doctor. The commissioners took this mitigating circumstance into account, reducing the fine which was initially €60,000. Despite the aforementioned, respect for the national anthem is a top priority, later adding that all teams must consider all possible eventualities to be in position for the anthem at the scheduled time.
