FIA Overturns Sainz Penalty Points from Zandvoort Lawson Clash

The FIA has overturned the two superlicence penalty points issued to Carlos Sainz following his collision with Liam Lawson at the Dutch Grand Prix. While the 10-second time penalty served during the race cannot be rescinded, stewards now classify the incident as a racing incident.

Why it matters:

This decision marks a win for Williams, who successfully pushed for a review, and provides crucial clarity on stewarding interpretations. It removes penalty points from Sainz's superlicence, though it does not alter the race's final classification where both drivers ultimately failed to score points.

The Incident:

• The wheel-to-wheel contact occurred at Turn 1 of Zandvoort, resulting in damage to both cars and leaving both Sainz and Lawson out of the points.
• Sainz was initially handed a 10-second time penalty and two superlicence penalty points for the contact.
• Williams driver Lawson had described Sainz as "so stupid" following the original decision.

The Review:

• Williams submitted a "right of review," necessitating the presentation of a "significant and relevant new element" to challenge the initial ruling.
• Team Principal James Vowles argued it was a racing incident, seeking clearer guidance from the FIA.
• The FIA agreed with the new evidence presented, concluding that "no driver was wholly or predominantly to blame for that collision."
• The stewards' report acknowledged Lawson's "momentary loss of control" but also noted Sainz "contributed to the incident by taking the risk to drive close to, and on the outside of, Car 30."
• Crucially, the 10-second time penalty, having been served during the race, could not be altered, thus leaving the final classification unchanged.

What's Next:

• Williams issued a statement expressing gratitude for the review and acknowledging that "mistakes are part of motor racing," pledging to "continue to work constructively with the FIA to improve stewarding processes and review the racing rules for the future."
• F1 continued on September 19-21 with the Azerbaijan Grand Prix at Baku.