The FIA has set the date and time for the hearing of an appeal filed by the Williams team regarding a penalty imposed on Carlos Sainz during the recent Dutch Grand Prix. Sainz received a 10-second time penalty and two penalty points for a collision with Liam Lawson at Zandvoort, which led to the team requesting a review of the decision.
The hearing, confirmed by the FIA, is scheduled for Friday, September 12, at 2:30 pm UK time. This delay allows the Zandvoort stewards to reconvene virtually via video conference. Williams aims to challenge the penalty points on Sainz’s racing license, although the time penalty cannot be overturned as it was served during a pit stop.
Team principal James Vowles expressed the desire for a direct discussion with the stewards to gain clarity on racing regulations for the future. Right of review hearings have historically been challenging to win, with the majority not resulting in a decision reversal.
The hearing will follow a two-part process, with the Williams team required to present significant new evidence supporting their appeal. If deemed necessary, a representative from Lawson’s Racing Bulls team will also participate in the proceedings.
Williams currently holds the fifth position in the constructors’ championship with 86 points, facing competition from Racing Bulls, who are seventh with 61 points, trailing Aston Martin by one point. Formula 1 enthusiasts can access live coverage of practice, qualifying, and races through the Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle, which also includes additional TV channels and subscriptions to Netflix and Discovery+.
