F1 Today: Hamilton Demands Penalties for Verstappen & Leclerc, FIA Confirms Budget Cap Compliance

Lewis Hamilton was notably frustrated after the Mexico City Grand Prix's chaotic start, vocally advocating for penalties against rivals he believed had "cheated" at Turn 1. His ire was primarily directed at Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc, both of whom ran wide but escaped immediate sanctions.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's passionate radio messages highlight the intense pressure and scrutiny placed on drivers and stewards in high-stakes races, especially when controversial incidents occur. It also underscores the inherent subjectivity and difficulty in policing racing infringents in real-time. Meanwhile, the FIA's budget cap findings reinforce the governing body's commitment to financial fair play, a critical component for long-term competitive balance in F1.

The Details:

• Hamilton's Frustration: During the Mexico City Grand Prix, Hamilton expressed strong disapproval of Verstappen and Leclerc's actions at Turn 1, stating, "Max took a shortcut. Loads of people gained advantage." He further emphasized, "I got hit at Turn 1, pushed wide. What are they doing about people who took advantage?"
• Ironic Twist: Hamilton himself received a 10-second penalty on Lap 19 for rejoining the track ahead of Verstappen after an off-track excursion, leading to his strong retort: "That's such sh**, man. These guys are unbelievable, mate."
• FIA Budget Cap Audit: The FIA concluded its audit for the 2024 Formula 1 budget cap, set at $140.4 million.
  • Compliance: Nine teams were found to be fully compliant with the financial regulations.
  • Aston Martin's Minor Breach: Aston Martin (AMR GP Ltd) committed a "minor procedural breach," which the FIA clarified "has not exceeded the Cost Cap level." The breach was attributed to "unpredictable circumstances outside the team’s control" and was resolved through an Accepted Breach Agreement (ABA) on September 29.
  • No Penalties for Aston Martin: The FIA confirmed "no financial penalties were imposed on AMR," as there was "no accusation or evidence that AMR sought or gained any undue advantage as a result of the breach."
• Power Unit Manufacturers: All five power unit manufacturers were also found to be fully compliant with the 2024 financial regulations.

The Big Picture:

Hamilton's comments reflect a persistent challenge in F1: how to consistently and fairly apply racing rules, particularly during the opening laps of a Grand Prix. The budget cap, on the other hand, is a relatively new but crucial regulation designed to prevent a spending arms race and promote a more level playing field. The FIA's thorough audit process, even with a minor procedural breach, demonstrates its commitment to upholding these rules.

What's next:

The discussions around on-track penalties will undoubtedly continue to be a talking point among drivers and teams throughout the season, with each incident fueling further debate. As for the budget cap, the FIA's transparent and firm approach will likely strengthen confidence in the financial regulations, ensuring that teams continue to operate within the defined limits for a more sustainable and competitive future in Formula 1.