Sainz fined €20,000 for arriving late to national anthem ceremony · RaceFans

The Japanese Grand Prix stewards have fined Carlos Sainz Jnr €20,000 (£17,000) because he arrived late to the pre-race performance of the national anthem.

Half of the Williams driver’s fine has been suspended providing he does not commit the same breach of the rules over the next 12 months.

The stewards pointed out drivers had been “reminded of the requirement to be in position by the time prescribed in the regulations and the need to show respect for the host country’s anthem.” Princess Akiko of Mikasa attended today’s race at Suzuka.

Sainz told the stewards he arrived late due to a stomach complaint, which was verified by a doctor. The stewards therefore reduced the fine from the FIA’s guideline value of €60,000 (£54,000).

“During the drivers’ briefing on Friday all drivers were reminded of the requirement to be in position by the time prescribed in the regulations and the need to show respect for the host country’s anthem,” the stewards explained.

“It is noted that the Penalty Guidelines prescribed in Appendix B of the FIA International Sporting Code, list a penalty for this offence, of €60,000. However in mitigation, the driver stated that just prior to the anthem, he experienced discomfort due [to] a stomach issue which delayed his appearance on the grid. This was verified by Dr Messina of Med-Ex who confirmed the issue and stated he had provided appropriate medication for the driver.

“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. Hence a penalty similar to that imposed for a similar breach in Canada in 2024, is imposed.

Yuki Tsunoda was fined €10,000 for arriving late to the national anthem performance at the Canadian Grand Prix last year.

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