06-04-2025
Carlos Sainz Hit with Major Fine for Missing National Anthem Due to Stomach Issues
Carlos Sainz's weekend in Japan went from bad to worse when, after finishing outside the points for the third time in three grands prix, he was hit with a €20,000 fine for arriving to his position for the National Anthem after the Anthem had commenced ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix.
The FIA took into account that the driver was experiencing discomfort due to a stomach issue, and having the sickness verified by Dr Messina of Med-Ex brought the fine down to €20,000 from €60,000, the fee stated for the offence in the FIA International Sporting Code.
"Notwithstanding the above, displaying respect for the National Anthem is a high priority and all parties need to consider every eventuality in planning to be in position for the Anthem by the required time," The FIA stated. "Hence, a penalty similar to that imposed for a similar breach in Canada in 2024 is imposed."
The referenced Canadian Grand Prix fine was for Yuki Tsunoda arriving late to the anthem after not being informed of the correct time, and the then Visa Cash App RB driver was fined €10,000.
At the time of Tsunoda's penalty, the sanctioning body stated that they were implying a less severe penalty or reprimand, but didn't state the same large sum they did for Sainz's penalty this year. Tsunoda made it to his spot as the Anthem was still being performed.
This was Sainz's second penalty of the weekend, where he finished 14th after qualifying in 15th and starting back in 18th thanks to a three-place grid penalty for impeding the Ferrari of Lewis Hamilton.
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