Hamilton demands transparency after Mexico incidents
Lewis Hamilton says the FIA needs to provide more clarity on its decisions. He is reacting to the commotion surrounding the start of the Mexican Grand Prix. Many drivers were surprised that several drivers were not penalised after driving on the grass for part of the first corner series.
Who were involved?
Among the drivers who attracted attention were Charles Leclerc (Ferrari), Max Verstappen (Red Bull) and Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes). They cut off the first corner combination and then merged back in. Some thought this gave them an advantage. Yet penalties did not always follow.
Hamilton did receive penalty
Hamilton himself received a 10-second penalty later in the race. That was because he drove through the grass at turn 4 in a fight with Verstappen. That happened shortly after Verstappen had done the same at Turn 2. Hamilton says he does not understand why the penalties are so variable.
His criticism of the FIA
He says there is little clarity on why decisions are made. He cites lack of transparency and accountability. He also complains about the closed manner in which some decisions are made. According to Hamilton, this needs to change. After all, the outcome of such decisions can change races or even championships.
Other reactions from the field
George Russell said he was very surprised that some drivers got away without penalty. He particularly felt the corner combination was problem-born. According to him, there is only one racing line at turns 2 and 3. This makes racing there difficult. He suggested major changes to the corner combination. He said he had already discussed this shortly before the race weekend.
Fernando Alonso was also angry. He said that if the track does not change, he might not take the first corner at all next year. He referred to a similar situation in Sochi in 2021 and also mentioned Ste Devote in Monaco as an example of a place where everyone is in the same boat.
Wider problem according to Hamilton
Hamilton hinted at previous instances where FIA decisions had a major impact. He mentioned the controversial outcome of the 2021 Abu Dhabi title fight and the actions of then race director Michael Masi. His point: the FIA and its decision-makers weigh careers and championships. That is why clear accountability is important.
What needs to be done?
- Clear and predictable rules for track limits at the start.
- More transparent communication on penalty measures and decisions.
- Quick assessment of whether Mexico's turn combination needs adjustment.
- Consistent application of penalties by match officials.
Opinions in the F1 peloton are clear. Many drivers want quick improvements. Without more clarity, dissatisfaction will remain. And with growing doubts about decisions, final results and championships are at stake.
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