Penalties and the stewards
Who decides when a rule is broken, the types of penalty, and why results can change after the flag.
The stewards are the independent officials who watch every session and decide whether a rule has been broken. Think of them as the referees.
How it works
- Something happens on track: a collision, leaving the track to gain an advantage, speeding in the pit lane.
- The stewards say they are investigating. You'll hear "noted" (they've looked and will take it no further) or "under investigation".
- They review video and radio, and may speak to the drivers.
- They either take no action or hand out a penalty.
Types of penalty
| Penalty | What it means |
|---|---|
| Time penalty | Usually 5 or 10 seconds, served at the next pit stop or added to the driver's final race time |
| Drive-through | Drive down the pit lane at the speed limit without stopping |
| Stop-go | Stop in the pit lane for a set time, then rejoin (rare) |
| Grid penalty | Moves a driver back on the starting grid. Often given for using too many engine parts |
| Disqualification | Removes the driver from the results entirely |
Penalty points
Drivers also collect penalty points on their licence for more serious offences. If a driver reaches 12 points within 12 months they get a one-race ban, and the count resets. Points drop off after 12 months.
Results can change
A penalty can be given during the race, or after it when the stewards finish investigating. That is how a driver can cross the line first and not be the winner. Formula Live shows the results from our data provider, which are updated when the official classification changes.
Teams can ask the stewards to look at a decision again if they have new evidence. This is called a right of review.