Oscar Piastri reacts to Max Verstappen’s new penalty revelation as FIA explains controversial Saudi GP decision
Following the release of a new official FIA document, McLaren driver Oscar Piastri has spoken out regarding the updated clarification over Max Verstappen’s controversial five-second penalty at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
The incident in question occurred during the opening moments of the race at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. Verstappen, who started on pole, clashed with Piastri into Turn 1. While Piastri took the inside line, Verstappen ran wide off track and rejoined the circuit ahead-prompting a review by the race stewards. The Red Bull driver was eventually handed a five-second penalty for “leaving the track and gaining an advantage.”
However, a newly published FIA document has sparked fresh debate by revealing that Verstappen could have-and perhaps should have-received a harsher penalty.
According to the FIA: “Ordinarily, the baseline penalty for leaving the track and gaining a lasting advantage is 10 seconds. However, given that this was a lap one and turn one incident, we considered that to be a mitigating circumstance and imposed a 5-second time penalty instead.”
Upon hearing the FIA’s explanation, Piastri did not hold back in his response. Speaking to reporters after the race, the Australian driver said, “It’s a little frustrating, to be honest. If the standard penalty is 10 seconds, then I think everyone should be held to the same rules-even if it’s lap one. We all know Turn 1 is chaotic, but gaining an advantage is still gaining an advantage.”
Piastri, who went on to win the race ahead of Verstappen and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, expressed his concern about what message the FIA’s leniency might send.
“I respect a a lot.e’s an incredible competitor.,,ut when you’re racing wheel to wheel and someone goes off and still comes out in front, it sets a strange precedent. I’m happy I won, but think the integrit of decisions like this needs to be consistent.”
Piastri further added, “I don’t want to sound like I’m whining about it-I’m thrilled with the win-but consistency is really important in a sport like ours. You don’t want drivers thinking they can stretch the limits just because it’s Turn 1.”
Despite his frustration, Piastri acknowledged the FIA’s attempt to apply context to the decision. “I get that the stewards are trying to take circumstances into account, and racing on the first lap can be messy. But at the end of the day, if you benefit by going off track, the rules should apply the same way. I hope we can have more clarity moving forward.”
Verstappen, on the other hand, appeared clearly agitated post-race and even refused to participate in the champagne celebrations on the podium. Red Bull principal Christian Horner later defended his driver by presenting onboard footage in an effort to challenge the penalty. Adding to the drama, it was confirmed that Verstappen will not receive an additional penalty point on his license-despite already sitting on eight. Dutch journalist Erik van Haren clarified, “Verstappen does not get an extra penalty point on his license because it was not a dangerous incident. Gaining advantage by leaving the track does not fall under that category.”
As the dust settles from Saudi Arabia, Piastri’s mature but firm stance has earned praise from fans and pundits alike.
Formula 1 now shifts its attention to the next race: the Miami Grand Prix, scheduled for May 4. All eyes will be on Verstappen and Piastri once again, as their newly ignited rivalry continues to take center stage.
