Carlos Sainz was fined € 20,000 by the FIA for being on the network before the Sunday’s race to the Japanese national anthem – despite having a stomach issue.
The Spanish driver, who is now chasing Williams, visited a doctor on the track before the race began.
However, drivers are punished because they were not present in time for the national anthem of the host country – usually 15 minutes before lights – and no exception was made to Sainz.
The FIA fined him € 20,000, with € 10,000 suspended one year, although it was less than the usual fine of € 60,000 due to the mitigating circumstances.
Dr Messina, of Med-Ex, confirmed Sainz’s stomach problems to F1’s governing body, adding that they had administered medication.
“The driver arrived at the national anthem after the national anthem began,” the stewards said.
‘During the managers’ briefing on Friday, all managers were reminded of the requirement to be in position by the time prescribed in the regulations, and the need to show respect for the national anthem of the host country.
“To show respect for the national anthem is a high priority and all parties must take into account every event in the planning of the national anthem.”
Sainz finished the race in 14th, after starting the 15th on the network after receiving a three-place fall due to the hindrance of Lewis Hamilton in qualifying.
