How the Williams and FIA Issue Was Resolved
Let’s travel back in time for a quick moment. Let’s go back to August 31st, when we watched the Dutch Grand Prix and witnessed Carlos Sainz, who is now driving for Williams this season, receive a 10-second penalty. During the Dutch race, Saniz was handed this unfortunate penalty for a collision with Liam Lawson, who drives with Racing Bulls. Thankfully, the ‘Right of Review’ that was submitted by Williams over the penalty has officially come back with success in tow.
A few days after the Dutch Grand Prix concluded, it was confirmed that a submission had been sent to the FIA regarding the penalty, asking for a thorough review of the incident. What happened, one might ask. The race was weeks ago, and it is no surprise that one might need a refresher. Well, here it is. Saniz made contact with Lawson toward the end of Lap 26. Both Lawson and Saniz, unfortunately, received punctures to their cars. Saniz ended his race in 13th place and was upset nonetheless after hearing about the penalty. A hearing was set for September 12th, via video conference with the team representative. Following the conference, it was revealed that the ‘Right of Review’ ordered the issue dropped.
Unfortunately, there is not much to be done about the time penalty that Saniz served during the Dutch Grand Prix. Luckily, the two penalty points that were placed on his super license have now officially been removed by the FIA. Williams made a statement about the issue, saying, "We are grateful to the stewards for reviewing Carlos' Zandvoort penalty and are pleased they have now decided he was not at fault and that this was a racing incident.” With this news, not much will change except that the penalty points will be dropped from his license. At least it does prove that the FIA is not always correct. Thank goodness they do have the heart to come out wrong, and further the drivers in their races. Hopefully, with this issue resolved, Williams will be able to have stronger races and have a great drive in Azerbaijan. Make sure to watch the race on September 21st, and stay updated!
