FIA Penalizes Yuki Tsunoda and Red Bull for Impeding Incident with Lando Norris

Yuki Tsunoda and Red Bull have received penalties from the FIA following an impeding incident involving Lando Norris during FP3 at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The incident saw Norris forced off track to avoid collision with a slow-moving Tsunoda, resulting in a formal warning for Tsunoda and a €10,000 fine for Red Bull for failing to properly notify their driver of Norris's approach.

Why it matters:

The FIA's decision highlights the ongoing emphasis on driver safety and fair play in Formula 1. Incidents of impeding, especially in practice sessions, can disrupt a driver's preparation, cause unnecessary risks, and potentially affect qualifying performance. The split penalty between the driver and the team underscores the shared responsibility in preventing such occurrences, sending a clear message about adherence to track etiquette and communication protocols.

The Details:

• The Incident: During the final practice session of the F1 2025 season at Yas Marina, Lando Norris encountered a slow-moving Yuki Tsunoda on the approach to Turn 12. Norris, on a quicker lap, had to take evasive action, heading into the run-off area to prevent a collision.
• Tsunoda's Reaction: Tsunoda, recognizing the error, extended his arm in apology to Norris immediately after the near-miss.
• Stewards' Verdict: Both drivers and team representatives were summoned to the stewards. The FIA's investigation revealed that while Norris initially showed telemetry indicating he wasn't on a push lap, he then increased his pace significantly.
• Red Bull's Failure: Red Bull conceded that they misinterpreted Norris's initial pace and only advised Tsunoda about other cars on push laps. The stewards determined that Red Bull had ample time and visibility on the GPS map to warn Tsunoda about Norris's rapidly approaching McLaren.
• FIA Penalties:
  • Red Bull: Fined €10,000 for failing to adequately inform Tsunoda of Norris's quick approach.
  • Yuki Tsunoda: Issued a formal warning for driving slowly in a dangerous track position, despite not being warned by his team.

The big picture:

This incident is a reminder that while drivers are ultimately responsible for their actions on track, teams play a crucial role in providing the necessary information to ensure safe and compliant driving. The detailed breakdown of the stewards' decision, referencing telemetry and GPS data, reinforces the stringent scrutiny applied to such events. It also highlights the technical capabilities of F1 teams, who have access to real-time data that should be utilized effectively to prevent safety hazards.

What's next:

Teams will likely review their communication protocols and driver instruction procedures to avoid similar penalties in future race weekends. Drivers, particularly those on slow laps, will need to maintain heightened awareness of their surroundings, regardless of team communication, to ensure track safety. This ruling serves as a precedent for how impeding incidents will be judged going forward, emphasizing the dual responsibility of both driver and team.