FIA issues strong statement after Dutch GP stewards face online abuse

Three drivers collected penalty points on their licences following the Dutch Grand Prix, with Franco Colapinto, Arvid Lindblad and Liam Lawson all punished for infringements under yellow flags at Zandvoort. Lawson received a ten-second penalty for speeding during the yellow-flag period triggered by Max Verstappen’s crash, although it did not affect his seventh-place finish due to the gap behind him.

Lindblad and Colapinto faced heavier consequences, with both receiving drive-through penalties as well as penalty points. Lindblad believed the sanction cost him a potential points finish, while Colapinto was penalised for overtaking Yuki Tsunoda under yellow flags at Turn 14 on the opening lap, taking his tally to three penalty points over a 12-month period.

In the aftermath of the Dutch Grand Prix, Colapinto’s penalty also prompted a reaction from one of his main sponsors. Sean Summers, chief marketing officer of Mercado Libre, took to X to launch an attack on the FIA and the standard of stewarding seen throughout the season.

In a statement shared on social media, the FIA addressed the hostile reaction aimed at the stewards. The governing body defended the officials carrying out their duties at Zandvoort and made clear that criticism of decisions cannot cross the line into abuse or personal attacks.

The FIA also reiterated its commitment to tackling abusive behaviour through the United Against Online Abuse coalition, calling for a more respectful environment around the sport both on social media and beyond.

"In 2023, the FIA launched the United Against Online Abuse coalition after a steward faced targeted abuse following the United States Grand Prix. We urge everyone engaging with our sport to do so with respect and responsibility, online and offline."