The F1 drivers will once again discuss driving standards and the performance of the stewards with the FIA during the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend. The much-discussed incidents involving Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton during the Belgian GP are also expected to be discussed. Both came under scrutiny during the main race at Spa-Francorchamps due to on-track incidents, although only Hamilton was actually penalized.
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The seven-time world champion received a five-second time penalty after a touch with George Russell on the opening lap. The Mercedes driver ended up in the gravel trap and had to retire from the race prematurely. Experts condemned the decision, believing that the FIA had focused too much on the outcome of the incident. Leclerc, however, remained unpunished later after a collision with Oscar Piastri in the battle for third place. This decision further fueled the discussion. Critics noted that the stewards’ decision-making did not align with existing guidelines.
High-level meeting
The meeting between the drivers and the FIA was already scheduled before the events in Belgium took place, but due to the criticism of the decisions at Spa, it will likely receive extra attention. The last time such a consultation took place was during the Qatar GP in 2025. At that time, it was agreed to meet more often to discuss the application of the rules.
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The incident between Leclerc and Piastri, in particular, is expected to be extensively discussed. The Ferrari driver defended his position after both cars had driven wheel-to-wheel down the Kemmel straight. When Leclerc returned to the ideal line towards Les Combes, his left rear wheel touched Piastri’s right front tire, causing damage to the McLaren driver. After investigation, the stewards decided not to take further action. Piastri reacted with surprise afterwards. “I couldn’t really go anywhere,” he said, bewildered.
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