While the McLaren team celebrated a triumphant one-two finish at the British Grand Prix, Oscar Piastri`s challenge for victory was significantly hampered by a 10-second penalty. This sanction, issued for `erratic driving` during a Safety Car restart phase, remains a point of contention for the Woking-based squad, who maintain the ruling was excessively severe.
The incident in question occurred as the Safety Car prepared to return to the pits. As championship leader Max Verstappen closed in behind Piastri on the Hangar Straight, the Australian driver significantly reduced speed. Stewards` data showed Piastri braking sharply from 218 kph to 52 kph with a brake pressure of 59.2 psi. The official verdict stated Verstappen was forced to take `evasive action to avoid a collision`.
However, McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella indicated after the race that a deeper review of the data and video evidence left the team convinced the penalty was “very harsh.” Stella highlighted several factors that he felt warranted greater consideration by the stewards.
One key point raised was the timing of the Safety Car call-in. Stella noted the late notice left leading drivers with minimal time to manage tyre and brake temperatures effectively before the restart, a situation he suggested applied equally to everyone.
Furthermore, Stella pointed out that brake pressures around 50 bar (roughly equivalent to the 59.2 psi cited by stewards in the specific braking event) are not uncommon during Safety Car periods as drivers cycle through braking and acceleration zones to maintain car performance. He implied that the specific data point, while seemingly extreme in isolation, might be less so within the full context of Safety Car restart procedures.
Adding another layer of perspective, Stella mused on whether “other competitors” might have influenced the perception of the incident. This remark, delivered with a technical focus, touches upon the subtle art of race craft – demonstrating one`s own compromised situation might, intentionally or otherwise, emphasize a competitor`s actions to the officials. Regardless, the stewards clearly saw definitive `evasive action` required from Verstappen.
McLaren communicated with Race Control during the Grand Prix, suggesting the incident be investigated *after* the race. This approach, Stella argued, would allow stewards to gather comprehensive input from the drivers involved and fully analyze all available data before reaching a conclusion. He acknowledged the challenging role of the stewards and the complexities of ensuring consistency across myriad unique racing scenarios, expressing a desire to maintain open dialogue with the FIA to understand different interpretations of the situation.
Ultimately, the penalty was served, and the team accepted the immediate ruling, moving forward from Silverstone with valuable points and lessons. Despite the setback for Piastri`s individual race result, McLaren`s overall performance underscored their current strength. Stella concluded that the team would continue its internal review, hopeful that Piastri will channel any frustration into even stronger performances in the upcoming races.
