Pierre Gasly has called for a major review of Formula 1’s penalty points system after Max Verstappen came dangerously close to a race ban due to accumulated points. The four-time world champion currently faces a ban from the British Grand Prix if he receives a single penalty point during the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix, highlighting ongoing tensions around the existing rules.
The penalty points system was introduced in 2014 to deter repeat violations, with drivers being banned for one race if they reach 12 points within a year. Verstappen is sitting at 11 points following his latest infraction in Barcelona. Although two of these points are set to expire after the Austrian event, the threat of suspension remains real if any additional penalty is applied.
Former Teammate Gasly Criticizes Severity of Penalty Structure
Gasly, who previously found himself on 10 points during the 2022 season, feels the current system unfairly punishes drivers for offences that do not necessarily threaten safety. Now racing for Alpine, he expressed frustration with the risk of missing a race for what he believes are minor infractions.
Personally, I’m not a big fan of penalty points,
said Gasly.
The level we have in Formula 1, we are professional in what we do. We obviously push things to the limits, but to have a race ban potentially…
I was in that situation a couple of months earlier and I don’t think I was a dangerous driver on track.
So for me there’s something that can be reviewed [and] other ways of implying some sort of penalties without getting a risk of having a driver missing a race.
Racing Bulls Rookie Also Questions the Current Penalty Approach
Gasly’s concerns were shared by newcomer Isack Hadjar of Racing Bulls. The rookie emphasized his preference for a cleaner penalty system that does not force drivers to alter their racing style out of fear of accumulating points.
I copy paste from what he said,
Hadjar stated.
I don’t like having penalty points, that’s for sure because then you don’t wanna end up changing your approach.
It’s a very clean field to be honest, so, so yeah, it’s not very needed.
Max Verstappen’s Response to Penalty Points Pressure
Max Verstappen declined to comment directly on the penalty points system when asked prior to the Austrian Grand Prix. When questioned about whether he would modify his driving to avoid further points, the Dutchman appeared irritated by the repeated inquiries.
He responded,
“You’re joking? Is this like a trap? I’m getting this question every single time, every weekend.”
He then added, I have nothing to add.
Implications for Formula 1 and the Coming Races
The debate over the penalty points system raises questions about its fairness and impact on driver behavior in Formula 1. With Verstappen potentially facing suspension, which could influence the championship battle, the sport may need to reconsider how it balances discipline with maintaining competitive integrity on track. The upcoming Austrian and British Grands Prix will serve as critical moments for this evolving situation.
