Austin, Oct 20: In a surprising move that has left leading Formula 1 drivers and teams in disbelief, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) announced a substantial increase in the maximum fine that can be imposed on competitors, raising it from €250,000 to a staggering €1 million (£871,000).
The decision was unveiled during a meeting of the FIA’s legislative body, the World Motorsport Council, on Thursday.
The FIA, the governing body of Formula 1, justified the fourfold increase as a means to deter teams and drivers from the most severe and dangerous breaches of the regulations. However, the announcement lacked clarity on the specific offenses that could warrant such a hefty fine.
Charles Leclerc, the driver for Ferrari, expressed his astonishment at the substantial fine, saying, “I have no idea what deserves a €1 million penalty.” He went on to highlight the significant financial magnitude, emphasizing that “Some drivers are making less than that.”
Kevin Magnussen, who drives for Haas, described the figure as “ridiculous,” while Daniel Ricciardo of Alpha Tauri labeled it “scary.”
The FIA did mention that any fines collected would be directed toward funding motorsport development programs, but the lack of details about the types of offenses that could lead to a €1 million fine left the Formula 1 community puzzled.
Seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton voiced his concern about the message such a fine would send to fans and the public, suggesting that if a million euros were to be imposed, it should entirely support a worthwhile cause. Hamilton also highlighted the need for the motorsport industry to enhance accessibility and diversity. He was recently fined €50,000, with half of it suspended, for crossing the track during the live race at the Qatar Grand Prix earlier in the month. (AP)
