Doc 21 - Infringement - Car 18 - Fan Engagement Activity

Infringements/DecisionsNotices/Procedures

Document 21 - Infringement - Car 18 - Fan Engagement Activity

To: The Team Manager, Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team From: The Stewards Date: 06 December 2025 Time: 14:45

Summary of the Matter

The Stewards received a report from the Media Delegate regarding Car 18 (Lance Stroll) and subsequently summoned the driver and team representatives. After hearing from all parties, the Stewards determined the following:

  • No / Driver: 18 - Lance Stroll
  • Competitor: Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team
  • Fact: The driver did not attend the Fan Engagement activity on Friday.
  • Infringement: Breach of Article 19.2 c) of the FIA Formula One Sporting Regulations.

Decision

The competitor (Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team) is fined €25,000. Of this amount, €15,000 is suspended for a period of 12 months from today's date, provided there is no further breach of Article 19 during that period.

Reasons for the Decision

  1. Non-attendance: The Media Delegate reported that Lance Stroll (Car 18) did not attend the Friday Fan Engagement activity.

  2. Team's Explanation: The team and driver stated that Stroll was informed by the team that his presence was not required for driving duties during FP1, and therefore he was not required for the Fan Engagement activity. They suggested a reserve or other driver would attend instead.

  3. Importance of Fan Engagement: The Stewards acknowledged that while appearing can be inconvenient for drivers, especially with a 5-hour gap between the Fan Engagement and FP2, fans are considered the core of Formula 1. Article 19 of the FIA Formula 1 Sporting Regulations reflects this importance.

  4. Impact on Fans: The FIA Media Delegate's report highlighted that many fans waited for several hours in the heat to see the drivers at the event.

  5. Competitor's Failure: The non-appearance was deemed a failure by the competitor, leading to a significant fine.

  6. Proposed Allocation of Fine Proceeds: It was recommended that the fine proceeds be used at the FIA's discretion to encourage fan involvement in motorsport in the region, either as officials or through grassroots activities.

  7. Mitigation and Suspension: The Stewards considered and accepted a proposal from the competitor:

    • To attend the fan zone this weekend.
    • To give signed team caps to all fans wearing Aston Martin apparel.
    • To select two fans for a garage tour, a session view from the garage, and a photo opportunity with both drivers.

    The Stewards require a report from the competitor confirming the implementation of this proposal. In light of this, the majority of the penalty has been suspended.

Right to Appeal

Competitors have the right to appeal certain decisions of the Stewards in accordance with Article 15 of the FIA International Sporting Code and Chapter 4 of the FIA Judicial and Disciplinary Rules, within the applicable time limits.

Decisions are made independently of the FIA, based solely on relevant regulations, guidelines, and evidence.

The Stewards:

  • Garry Connelly
  • Derek Warwick
  • Mathieu Remmerie
  • Mohammed Al Hashmi