Lando Norris has been reprimanded following the aborted start incident at the 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix, where he prematurely left the grid despite an aborted start signal.
Norris, who started from the front row, drove off the grid after receiving the aborted start signal. This violation of Article 47.1 of the FIA Formula 1 Sporting Regulations led the Stewards to fine him €5,000 and issue a reprimand for his actions during the race at Interlagos.
As per the Stewards’ report, the signal, initiated by the Race Director, was communicated through the messaging system and illuminated on the light panel to ensure drivers remained on the grid.
The procedure was necessary due to a car off-track at Turn 4, which required recovery before the race could proceed safely. Despite these clear signals, Norris proceeded to leave the grid, assuming he was completing an additional formation lap.
However, as the driver at the front, his movement prompted other drivers to follow, creating confusion on the grid and necessitating a collective extra formation lap for all cars.
George Russell, who started second on the grid, was also handed a reprimand for the same reasons.
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Stewards’ Decision and Penalty Explanation
The Stewards concluded that Norris’s premature departure led to a cascading effect, influencing the drivers positioned behind him to act similarly.
After realising the grid’s confusion, the Race Director instructed all teams to follow the extra formation lap and return to the grid to adhere to the standard aborted start procedure.
Following a review of video evidence and statements from Norris’s team representative, the Stewards determined that Norris’ actions were in breach of the FIA regulations.
They noted that while the error may have stemmed from a misinterpretation, it still disrupted the race procedure and warranted a penalty. Consequently, the decision to fine Norris and issue a reprimand was made to underline the importance of adherence to start signals.
What about Lawson and Tsunoda?
The other two drivers who were also being investigated by the Stewards for the aborted start incident were Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda of RB, who were fifth and third on the starting grid, respectively.
While the Stewards acknowledged that Lawson and Tsunoda technically breached Article 47.1 of the FIA Formula 1 Sporting Regulations, they noted that their actions were significantly influenced by the drivers immediately ahead of him.
Given these circumstances, the Stewards determined that Lawson and Tsunoda were not predominantly responsible for the breach. As a result, no further action was deemed necessary.
