FIA waives punishment for Mazepin and Schumacher for holding up Vettel

One of the notable early exits from the eventful qualifying battle at Circuit Zandvoort was Aston Martin driver Sebastian Vettel. During his attempted fast lap in the first session, he was held up by both Haas drivers, Mick Schumacher and Nikita Mazepin, who seemed to be involved in an internal power struggle. However, the FIA has decided not to penalise either driver, it has been confirmed.

Vettel's ruined lap as well as the questionable actions of the Haas men were noticed by the FIA and would be investigated in more detail after the qualifying session. After an investigation reads the verdict of the FIA's governing body, "no further action."

In all likelihood, the FIA does not consider the Haas drivers' actions serious enough to satisfy the 'unnecessary blocking' requirement for which a penalty can be given. Also, it was generally busy in the corner in question when Vettel came tearing up.

Fire lit

In the final minutes of Q1, Mick Schumacher tried to overtake his Russian teammate to get the best possible position for a fast final lap. Mazepin was not happy about this, as it was not in line with the 'gentleman's agreement' between drivers.