F1 Stars Unite Against Controversial Penalty Decision
Multiple senior Formula One drivers have demanded an urgent meeting with motorsport's governing body following what they describe as an "unacceptable" penalty handed to Oscar Piastri during the Brazilian Grand Prix. The controversial decision has sent shockwaves through the paddock as the championship battle intensifies.
The Australian driver, who has just three races remaining to overtake teammate Lando Norris at the summit of the Formula One World Championship, saw his efforts hampered by a harsh 10-second penalty in São Paulo. Piastri now faces the challenge of eroding Norris's 24-point lead during this weekend's rain-affected Las Vegas Grand Prix.
The Incident That Sparked Outrage
The controversy unfolded during the sixth lap at Interlagos when Piastri attempted an inside line manoeuvre with Kimi Antonelli approaching on his right flank. The two cars made contact, which subsequently caused Antonelli to bump into Charles Leclerc, sending the Monegasque driver off the track and ultimately out of the race.
Race stewards stunned the F1 community by placing full responsibility on Piastri, claiming he had "not established the required overlap prior to and at the apex." The Australian driver's radio transmission captured his frustration as he protested: "I can't disappear."
The penalty proved costly for Piastri, who dropped from second position down to fifth after serving his time penalty. Meanwhile, Antonelli secured a runner-up finish behind race winner and championship leader Lando Norris.
Drivers Rally Behind Piastri
Williams driver Carlos Sainz has emerged as one of the most vocal critics of the decision, calling for immediate discussions with FIA officials. The Spaniard didn't mince words when addressing the media ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
"I think we need urgently a catch-up and try and solve it because for me the fact that Oscar got a penalty there in Brazil is unacceptable, honestly, for the category that we are in and being the pinnacle of motorsport," Sainz stated emphatically.
Even Charles Leclerc, who retired from the race due to the incident, surprisingly sided with Piastri. "In this case I really think Kimi knew and was aware that Oscar was on the inside," Leclerc explained. "I don't think Oscar deserved all the blame. For me it's a bit more of a 50-50 blame with Kimi and Oscar."
Piastri expressed gratitude for the support from his fellow drivers, acknowledging that "a lot of people have done the talking for me." He confirmed that discussions with the FIA are planned to gain better understanding of the decision that left the entire grid surprised.
Drivers are scheduled to meet with FIA bosses ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix on November 30, where Sainz confirmed this incident will be treated as a top priority. As the championship battle reaches its climax, this controversy has highlighted growing concerns about consistency in stewarding decisions that could potentially influence the outcome of the world title.
