Carlos Sainz has criticized the penalty given to Oscar Piastri during the Brazilian Grand Prix, labeling it as ‘unacceptable’ and calling for a meeting with F1 officials to clarify racing rules. Sainz also expressed bewilderment over several penalties issued post the summer break.
Piastri was in fourth place behind Lando Norris, Kimi Antonelli, and Charles Leclerc when a safety car exited the track in Brazil. Seizing an opportunity, Piastri attempted an overtake maneuver on the inside of Turn One, leading to contact with Leclerc after the Mercedes driver turned in early.
The incident caused Antonelli’s car to collide with Leclerc, resulting in terminal damage for the latter. Piastri was penalized with a 10-second time penalty by the stewards, pushing him down the field before he managed to finish in fifth place. The penalty significantly impacted Piastri’s quest for the Drivers’ Championship.
Speaking ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Sainz insisted on the need for a discussion to resolve the issue, stating that it was unjust for Piastri to receive a penalty in Brazil considering the circumstances. Sainz emphasized that the incident was not Piastri’s fault and questioned the consistency in applying penalties based on his own experiences during the season.
Piastri faces a 24-point deficit in the upcoming triple-header to contend for the 2025 F1 world championship title. Despite not securing a podium in his last five Grand Prix races, Piastri is determined to challenge Norris, who is aiming for a third consecutive victory.
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