Verstappen on Red Bull's Grid Tape Fine: 'Understandable'

Max Verstappen acknowledges that Red Bull's 50,000 euro fine for a team member attempting to remove tape from Lando Norris's grid box at the United States Grand Prix was 'quite understandable'. The incident, which occurred just before the race, saw a Red Bull team member interfere with the grid markings, leading to a penalty for breaching safety procedures.

Why it matters:

• This incident highlights the strict adherence to regulations required on the F1 grid, particularly concerning safety and official markings. While seemingly minor, any unauthorized interference with grid procedures can lead to significant penalties, emphasizing the FIA's commitment to maintaining fair play and order.
• For Red Bull, a team known for its meticulous preparation, such a fine serves as a reminder that even small procedural missteps can have financial consequences.

The details:

• Ahead of the United States Grand Prix, a Red Bull team member was seen attempting to remove a piece of tape near Lando Norris's grid box.
• The FIA stewards deemed this an unauthorized interference with the grid markings, leading to a 50,000 euro fine for the Red Bull team.
• Verstappen commented on the fine, stating, "I think that it's quite understandable that you get fined for that." He added that drivers focus on the yellow line in the grid box for parking, and while some teams have different practices, the stewards' explanation made the penalty clear.
• The incident did not ultimately affect Verstappen's performance, as he went on to win the United States Grand Prix comfortably from pole position.
• Lando Norris, whose grid box was involved, also had a strong race, finishing second after battling Charles Leclerc.

Between the lines:

While the fine was significant, it appears to have had no impact on Red Bull's on-track performance or Verstappen's focus. The team's immediate acceptance of the penalty, as reflected in Verstappen's comments, suggests a straightforward acknowledgement of a procedural error rather than a contentious issue.

What's next:

As the F1 season progresses, teams will continue to be under scrutiny for adherence to all regulations, both on and off the track. This incident serves as a minor but firm reminder to all teams about the importance of respecting official procedures during race weekends.