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Beginner path · Step 10F1 penalties explained: time penalties and grid drops
Who decides
Each race has a panel of FIA stewards, usually including an experienced former driver. They review incidents using every camera angle and the car data, and they can call drivers in for a hearing.
The penalties, from mildest to harshest
| Penalty | What happens |
|---|---|
| Warning / reprimand | Formal note. No time lost, but reprimands add up. |
| 5-second penalty | Served at the next pit stop (the crew must wait), or added to race time. |
| 10-second penalty | Same, but doubled. |
| Drive-through | Drive through the pit lane at the speed limit without stopping. |
| 10-second stop-go | Stop in the pit box for 10 seconds, with no work allowed on the car. |
| Grid penalty | Start X places further back at the next race. |
| Disqualification | Results removed, for example for a technical infringement. |
Track limits
Drivers must keep the car within the white lines. In qualifying, crossing them deletes the lap. In the race, drivers get warnings, then a black-and-white flag, then a time penalty.
Penalty points
Serious offences also add penalty points to a driver’s superlicence. Collect 12 points within 12 months and you’re banned for a race. That’s why drivers sometimes race more cautiously late in a season.
Engine penalties
Each driver has a limited number of power unit components per season. Use more and they get grid penalties. Sometimes teams take a big penalty at a track where overtaking is easier, then start near the back on purpose.
FAQ
What are track limits in F1?
Drivers must keep at least part of the car within the white lines that mark the track. In qualifying, breaking track limits deletes the lap. In races, repeated violations lead to warnings and then time penalties.
Who decides F1 penalties?
A panel of FIA stewards at each event, including a former driver, reviews incidents using video and data.
What gets a driver a grid penalty?
Usually using more power unit or gearbox parts than allowed in a season, or offences such as impeding in qualifying or causing a collision in a previous race.
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