F1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix: McLaren Punished for Pit Lane Infringement in Baku

`Stewards fined McLaren €5,000 for a pit-lane violation after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. While celebrating Oscar Piastri's victory, the team breached Article 34.13 of the sporting regulations, which governs personnel and equipment in the pit lane. The violation occurred post-race as McLaren enjoyed Piastri's impressive drive, where he fended off Ferrari's Charles Leclerc for nearly 30 laps around the Baku Street Circuit. The investigation revealed McLaren had too many people or equipment in the pit lane, leading to the fine. This serves as a reminder that teams must follow strict pit-lane regulations, even in moments of celebration.

The statement said: 'The Stewards heard from the team representative and reviewed video evidence. While it is not unusual for team personnel to move towards the Parc Fermé area before the end of the race, McLaren had team members and equipment in the pit lane while other teams were still pitting and thus created a potentially unsafe condition. 

Also Read: F1 Azerbaijan GP: Oscar Piastri Battles His Way To Second Victory As McLaren Leads Championship After a Decade

'Competitors are reminded that they have the right to appeal certain decisions of the Stewards, in accordance with Article 15 of the FIA International Sporting Code and Chapter 4 of the FIA Judicial and Disciplinary Rules, within the applicable time limits.'

F1: Verstappen Cleared of Penalty

Max Verstappen avoided a penalty at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after overtaking under the Virtual Safety Car (VSC) during the chaotic final laps. McLaren's Oscar Piastri won the race, but the podium battle saw drama when Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez collided on the penultimate lap, triggering the VSC.

Also Read: F1: McLaren's Piastri to Back Norris in Title Fight Against Verstappen

With only a few laps to go and the race neutralised, Verstappen and several other drivers were investigated for overtaking under the VSC after the checkered flag. Despite being summoned by the stewards, Verstappen, along with Esteban Ocon, Pierre Gasly, and Nico Hulkenberg, received only warnings.