Lando Norris and George Russell faced reprimands and fines but successfully evaded further penalties after mishandling the aborted start procedure during the highly anticipated Sao Paulo Grand Prix.
Lance Stroll experienced a dramatic crash on the formation lap, ultimately getting stranded in the gravel while attempting to recover his car. This unfortunate incident led to the race not commencing as planned when the grid formation was set, prompting race control to issue an urgent ‘Aborted Start’ notification. This meant that a new 10-minute grid procedure was to be implemented, requiring all cars to remain in their positions.
Norris and Russell, however, pulled away from the front row prematurely to undertake another formation lap, inadvertently encouraging Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson to follow suit. In contrast, the remainder of the field remained stationary, awaiting further instructions.
According to the stewards’ decision, “The FIA Formula One Race Director initiated the Aborted Start procedure, indicating that the drivers should not leave the grid.” The message was deemed essential due to a car being off-track at Turn 4 that required recovery. Despite the correct signals being given and the light panel illuminating as per regulations, Norris and Russell departed the grid, proceeding on what they mistakenly believed to be an additional formation lap.
“As the driver was on the front row of the grid this triggered following drivers to take similar action. At some point, the Race Director, realizing the practical implications, issued instructions for all cars to complete an extra formation lap before returning to the grid to adhere to the correct aborted start procedure.”
Norris and Russell were ultimately found to be at fault, as they were the leading cars on the front row; however, Tsunoda and Lawson were not penalized. As a result, both Norris and Russell received a reprimand and were fined €5000 ($5440) each.
Mercedes also faced scrutiny, receiving two €5000 fines for altering tire pressures with the wheels still on their cars during the re-formed grid procedure. A technical directive clearly stated that tires should be removed prior to such adjustments. Nevertheless, the stewards acknowledged certain mitigating factors, such as a delay in opening the gate to the grid and the unique layout of the Interlagos circuit.
Carlos Sainz was reprimanded as well for engaging in dangerous driving practices. Following a mid-race crash, he attempted to drive away while marshals were diligently attending to his car. Although Sainz had removed his steering wheel, Ferrari communicated that a return to the garage might be possible. By the time he made this decision, marshals were already preparing to feed the recovery loop through the roll hoop of his vehicle. Recognizing Sainz was in the process of re-fitting his steering wheel, marshals swiftly removed the recovery loop just moments before the car moved.
**Interview with F1 Analyst Jamie Dawson on the Aborted Start Incident at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix**
**Editor:** Joining us today is F1 analyst Jamie Dawson to discuss the recent incidents during the Sao Paulo Grand Prix that led to reprimands for Lando Norris and George Russell. Jamie, thank you for being here. Can you walk us through what happened during the start of the race?
**Jamie:** Absolutely, it’s a pleasure to be here. The drama unfolded right from the start. We had Lance Stroll involved in a significant crash during the formation lap, which prompted race control to call for an aborted start. This was meant to ensure safety while the car was stranded.
**Editor:** Right, and this led to some confusion among the drivers, didn’t it?
**Jamie:** Yes, it did. When the ‘Aborted Start’ procedure was declared, drivers were instructed to stay in their positions. However, Lando Norris and George Russell misinterpreted the signals and pulled away from the front row, which was against the directive. This premature move led Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson to follow them, exacerbating the situation. Meanwhile, most of the field remained on the grid, unsure of their next steps.
**Editor:** The repercussions for Norris and Russell could have been severe. How did they manage to avoid more serious penalties?
**Jamie:** It was certainly a close call. The stewards decided that while there was a breach of protocol, the actions taken were largely based on confusion rather than malicious intent. The FIA’s Race Director had clearly communicated that the cars should remain stationary, but with the adrenaline and urgency of race day, it’s understandable that some drivers might have misheard or reacted quickly. They received reprimands and fines, nothing more severe, which reflects the stewards’ view on the incident being a mistake rather than outright disregard for the rules.
**Editor:** Interesting perspective. What does this mean for the drivers moving forward, especially regarding their focus and communication in future races?
**Jamie:** Moving forward, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of communication and adhering to race control instructions. It’s crucial for drivers to stay focused and ensure they understand the signals, especially in chaotic situations like an aborted start. Teams and drivers will likely analyze this mishap closely to prevent a recurrence.
**Editor:** Thank you for the insights, Jamie. It’s clear that even in elite motorsport, communication can make all the difference. We appreciate your time!
**Jamie:** Thank you! Always happy to discuss the intricacies of F1.