Aston Martin Drivers Fined for Missing Fan Engagement in Abu Dhabi

Aston Martin drivers Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll have been hit with a 'significant' double fine for an unusual FIA infringement, having missed a mandatory fan engagement activity on Friday in Abu Dhabi. Each driver received a €25,000 fine, with €15,000 of that amount suspended for 12 months.

Why it matters:

F1 places significant emphasis on fan interaction, with regulations requiring drivers to participate in scheduled fan engagement sessions. This incident highlights the FIA's commitment to prioritizing fan experience, even when it inconveniences drivers or teams, and underscores the importance of adhering to these rules.

The details:

• The Infringement: Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll were absent from the Friday Fan Engagement session at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
• The Penalty: Each driver received a €25,000 fine. Of this, €10,000 is an immediate penalty, while the remaining €15,000 is suspended for 12 months, to be enforced if a similar infringement occurs again.
• Team's Belief: Aston Martin reportedly believed their full-time drivers were not required to attend the fan activity, assuming reserve drivers could be sent instead, especially as both Alonso and Stroll missed FP1.
• Mitigation Efforts: Aston Martin proposed a make-up plan, which the FIA accepted. This includes:
  • Handing out signed team caps to fans wearing Aston Martin merchandise in the Yas Marina fan zone.
  • Offering two randomly selected fans a tour of the team's garage.
  • The team must provide a report confirming the completion of these activities.
• FIA's Stance: The stewards emphasized that fans are the 'core of Formula 1' and that many waited for hours in the heat to see the drivers. They noted that the non-appearance was a 'failure by the competitor.'

The big picture:

Article 19 of the Formula 1 Sporting Regulations mandates driver participation in fan engagement activities. The FIA's firm stance, imposing a 'significant fine,' sends a clear message across the paddock about the importance of these fan interactions. This move reinforces the commitment to maintaining the sport's connection with its global fanbase, crucial for its growth and popularity.

What's next:

The proceeds from the fines are recommended to be allocated at the FIA's discretion to encourage fan involvement in motorsport within the region, either as officials or through grassroots activities. This incident serves as a reminder to all teams and drivers about the strict adherence required for mandatory fan engagement and media obligations.