Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen dismiss new fears over F1 points deductions

Hamilton, Verstappen, Abu Dhabi — Photo: © LAT Images

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Hamilton and Verstappen dismiss new fears over F1 points deductions

The FIA has reminded drivers of potential sanctions in Abu Dhabi

Ewan Gale

Friday 10 December 2021 09:15

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Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen have both dismissed any added fears ahead of the F1 season-finale after FIA race director Michael Masi reiterated points deductions are enforceable by the governing body.

High tensions and on-track incidents have led to concerns over this year's hotly contested campaign between the two drivers ending either in a run-off area with broken machinery or in a courtroom.

Verstappen and Hamilton are level on points heading into the showdown at the Yas Marina Circuit after a season full of controversy and dramatic racing.

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With the Dutchman ahead only by the number of races won, with nine to Hamilton's eight, a double retirement would be enough to hand Verstappen the title.

Ahead of the event, an addition to the race director's notes described Article 12.4.5 of the International Sporting Code and read: “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.”

Comparisons have been drawn to when Michael Schumacher was disqualified from the 1997 world championship after a collision with eventual champion Jacques Villeneuve in the final race of the season at Jerez.

Asked how he felt about the reminder from Masi, Hamilton replied: "Firstly, it has happened in the past and obviously, the stewards have taken the precautions they have this time around.

"I think it is fair that they do it. Hopefully, they won't need to be used and we have a great race and move forwards.

"I don't really particularly have an opinion about it otherwise and I don't really want to see the stewards and they don't want to see me."

Sat alongside Hamilton, Verstappen added: "I know what is in the sporting code so nobody needs to be reminded of that. I think they can put it in every race weekend, there is nothing new added for this weekend."