Fact: Failure to slow for single waved yellow flag in turn 17

Offence: Breach of Appendix H Article 2.4.5.1. b) of the FIA International Sporting Code.

Decision: Drop of 3 grid positions, 2 penalty points imposed (total of 4 in the 12 month period)

Reason: The Stewards heard from the driver of Car 33 (Max Verstappen) and the team representative and have reviewed video, audio and telemetry evidences which clearly showed that the driver attempted to set a meaningful lap time and failed to reduce his speed in the relevant marshalling sector, contrary to the Appendix H, Article 2.4.5.1 b) as well as, the requirements set out in the item 9.2 of the Race Director’s Event Notes (version 3) in breach of Article 12.1.1 I of the FIA International Sporting Code. Driver of Car 33 admitted that he was aware that car 77 (Valtteri Bottas) crashed and did see the car on the left hand side of the track, but was not aware of the waved yellow flag. He also admitted not reducing his speed on the yellow sector. The Stewards noted from the on board images of Car 33, that the waved yellow flag was clearly visible and was shown with enough notice. The previous driver (Car 5) reduced the speed significaly as per the regulations. Taking into account all the available evidence and the statement from the driver the Stewards impose a drop of 3 grid positions at the driver’s next race and 2 penalty points.