FIA warn Lewis Hamilton-Max Verstappen of points deductions ahead of Abu Dhabi showdown

Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen crash at Monza — Photo: © LAT Images

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

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FIA warn Hamilton-Verstappen of points deductions ahead of Abu Dhabi showdown

Hamilton and Verstappen have clashed on a number of occasions this year

Sam Hall

Thursday 9 December 2021 11:40

FIA race director Michael Masi has sent a blanket warning of possible points deductions to drivers ahead of the championship showdown between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Title combatants Hamilton and Verstappen arrive at the Yas Marina Circuit tied on 369.5 points with the Red Bull driver ahead on countback of race wins.

In essence, the season finale presents a winner takes all scenario but after numerous clashes throughout the season, including last time out in Saudi Arabia, drivers have been warned the FIA isn't limited to time penalties but can also deduct points for driving infringements.

In his pre-event notes, Masi listed the relevant articles from the FIA sporting code.

“Any infringement of the principles of fairness in Competition, behaviour in an unsportsmanlike manner or attempt to influence the result of a Competition in a way that is contrary to sporting ethics," he wrote.

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“For all the FIA Championships, cups, challenges, trophies or series, the stewards may also decide to impose the following penalties: Suspension for one or more Competitions, withdrawal of points for the Championship, cup, challenge, trophy, series.

“Points should not be deducted separately from Drivers and Competitors, save in exceptional circumstances.”

Although applicable to Hamilton, the note will be viewed pointedly by Red Bull with Verstappen the only driver that could benefit from neither contender reaching the flag.

F1 warning pulled from history

There is precedent for the FIA to take drastic action in a season finale, most notably in 1997 when Michael Schumacher was disqualified from the season outright after making contact with eventual champion Jacques Villeneuve at Jerez.

Although the German retired on the spot and Villeneuve was able to take the crown on track, it was deemed Schumacher had caused an avoidable incident.

Should a similar set of events unfold in Abu Dhabi, the FIA has wasted no time in declaring the potential ramifications.