The FIA has imposed a fine of 20,000 euros on Aston Martin, plus a conditional fine of another 30,000 euros. Drivers Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll failed to attend a mandatory fan session on Friday. Both were required to be present according to the rules, but did not show up – much to the disappointment of their supporters. The stewards emphasized the importance of fan experience in their judgment.
In the official FIA documentation, the stewards stated that many fans had ‘waited for hours in the heat’ to see Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll. Aston Martin argued that the team had informed the drivers that replacements were possible, as both were also not in action during the first free practice. Alonso and Stroll were replaced by Cian Shields and Jak Crawford respectively.
‘Fans are the core of Formula 1’
The team tried to compensate for the absence with extra activities for the fans. They offered to be present in the fan zone, distribute signed caps, and give two fans an exclusive tour of the garage. The stewards appreciated this proposal, but found additional penalties necessary. Therefore, the FIA imposed a fine of 10,000 euros per driver, supplemented with a conditional fine of 15,000 euros per driver. The latter will only be collected if Aston Martin makes the same mistake within twelve months.
In their full judgment, the stewards emphasize that the drivers’ obligation to be present can sometimes be difficult, but remains essential for the sports experience. “While these obligations can sometimes be inconvenient for drivers, the stewards also recognize that fans are the core of Formula 1,” the message reads. They also pointed out again the disappointment along the fences. The team must also submit an official report as proof that both drivers visited the fan zone this weekend, all fans in Aston Martin attire received a signed cap, and two fans had a tour of the garage.
