FIA Confirms Contentious Penalty for McLaren Following Intense Drama in Austin
McLaren Formula 1 driver Oscar Piastri has received a penalty from the FIA at the US Grand Prix.
The sport’s governing body conducted an investigation into the young Australian racer’s maneuver involving Pierre Gasly’s Alpine during Saturday’s Sprint race. Additionally, his McLaren teammate Lando Norris was called before the stewards after a late incident with the Ferraris in what proved to be an eventful race.
The 23-year-old started the sprint at a disadvantage after an unexpected early exit from Friday’s qualifying. He was eliminated in SQ1 when his lap time was invalidated for exceeding track limits.
Beginning the race from 16th position was far from ideal for the young star, making his task of driving the papaya car into a point-scoring finish significantly more challenging. The team leading in this year’s constructors’ championship will need to secure every possible point at COTA over the weekend as they aim to fend off reigning champions Red Bull and maintain their advantage in the 2024 standings.
FIA Issues Penalty for Piastri After evaluating the risky maneuver by Car 81, the FIA has imposed a five-second penalty on Piastri. They concluded that he forced Gasly off the track at Turn 12. While discussing this incident during Sky Sports coverage, pundit Ted Kravitz humorously remarked: “The stewards are examining Piastri and Gasly… I’m amazed they can even tell them apart,” alluding to Alpine’s unique livery for the US GP weekend that closely resembles McLaren’s papaya colors at first glance.
Both McLaren drivers managed to secure spots in the top 10, despite Piastri’s penalty. However, points are awarded only to the fastest eight drivers in a sprint race. Formula 1 delivers thrilling entertainment from 24 incredible locations worldwide; for all the live action, tune in exclusively on Sky Sports by clicking here.
