“Pretty expensive poo”: George Russell shares comical sympathy to Carlos Sainz's bizarre €20,000 pre-race penalty in Japan

Carlos Sainz faced a hefty fine for some very unique reason in recent Japanese GP. Formula 1 may be about precision timing, blistering speed, and intense focus, but few fans consider the more human aspects that drivers face just moments before lights out. One of those less glamorous realities was recently highlighted following the €20,000 fine issued to Carlos Sainz for missing the Japanese national anthem at Suzuka – a delay reportedly caused by an upset stomach.

Carlos Sainz's €20K pre-race fine blamed on nature’s call, George Russell finds it hilariously unfortunate

Carlos Sainz, who later explained that a visit to the doctor was necessary before the race, saw the fine partially suspended due to mitigating circumstances. Yet even with a reduced penalty, the incident sparked conversation across the paddock, with fellow driver George Russell stepping in to offer a candid explanation of the pre-race challenges F1 drivers encounter.


“I've got to be honest; I totally appreciate that we have a duty to be there for the national anthem but it's not quite as straightforward as people may think for us to be there on time,” Russell shared, highlighting how a seemingly minor delay can snowball due to bathroom queues, impromptu interviews, or grid disruptions.

As a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, Russell provided insight that resonates beyond just Sainz’s situation. While appearing calm and composed on the grid, drivers often juggle personal necessities and media obligations within a tight schedule. “We're trying to take our moment for the grand prix,” he added, emphasising that nature doesn't always wait for protocol.

Sainz, speaking during the Bahrain Grand Prix, didn’t shy away from addressing the punishment either. "I'm the biggest supporter of punctuality... So I was the first one to put my hand up and say, 'I'm late, sorry for that'," he said. But the €10,000 financial penalty for being just a few seconds late left him incredulous. “I don't know if I'll get another fine for saying this… but shit happens.”

Russell, too, acknowledged the absurdity, calling it a “pretty expensive poo.” Still, he chose to focus on the broader need for unity between F1 leadership and drivers. “Moving forward, we just want collaboration... It just doesn't make any sense to be fighting on these topics.”

In a sport where milliseconds define legacy, even a trip to the bathroom has now become a topic for FIA scrutiny — and a costly one at that.

Also Read: "We still have work": Max Verstappen warns Red Bull fans not to get carried away after dominant Japanese Grand Prix win
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