Ferrari Criticizes 'Very Harsh' Hamilton Penalty in Mexico

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has criticized the FIA stewards for a "not very well-managed" opening phase of the Mexico City Grand Prix, calling Lewis Hamilton's 10-second penalty for leaving the track and gaining an advantage "very harsh." Vasseur argued that the punishment was disproportionate, especially considering other incidents went unpunished and the penalty's impact on their race strategy.

Why it matters:

Ferrari's public rebuke of the FIA stewards highlights ongoing tensions regarding penalty consistency and application in Formula 1. Such criticisms from a major team principal can pressure the governing body to review its decision-making processes, potentially influencing future race officiating and adding another layer of controversy to a sport already under scrutiny for fair play.

The Details:

• Incident Overview: Lewis Hamilton received a 10-second time penalty on Lap 6 for leaving the track and gaining a lasting advantage during a battle with Max Verstappen, running from Turn 1 to Turn 4. He cut across the grass and stayed ahead of the ensuing melee.
• Prior Acquittals: Hamilton was previously investigated and acquitted for contact with Verstappen at Turns 1 and 2, and for not using the designated escape road at Turn 4.
• Vasseur's Stance: Fred Vasseur stated, "Me too," when asked about Hamilton's frustration, reflecting his own dissatisfaction. He argued that the penalty cost Ferrari a potential P4 finish.
• Disproportionate Punishment: Vasseur found the 10-second penalty excessive, noting he couldn't recall a similar penalty of that duration. He contrasted it with Max Verstappen cutting the chicane earlier without penalty.
• Impact on Race: Serving the 10-second penalty at the pit stop dropped Hamilton to the back of the group, making overtaking extremely difficult on the Mexico City circuit. Vasseur believes a 5-second penalty would have still allowed them to maintain P4.
• Pace Appreciation: Despite the penalty, Vasseur was pleased with Ferrari's overall pace, with Charles Leclerc securing a P2 finish, though he acknowledged Lando Norris had superior pace.

Between the Lines:

Vasseur's pointed criticism, particularly his comparison to Verstappen's unpunished incident, suggests a deeper frustration with perceived inconsistencies in stewarding decisions. The emphasis on the penalty's impact on track position in Mexico, where overtaking is notoriously difficult, underscores how such calls can fundamentally alter a race outcome, irrespective of a team's pace. This isn't just about one penalty; it's about the broader perception of fairness and predictability in F1 officiating.

What's next:

Ferrari's public statement may prompt further discussion within the FIA regarding penalty guidelines and their application. While unlikely to overturn past decisions, such strong feedback from a team principal could contribute to a review of stewarding practices, potentially leading to clearer, more consistent rules enforcement in future F1 races. The debate around what constitutes a 'lasting advantage' and appropriate penalties is likely to continue.