“A rather expensive poop” – George Russell defends Carlos Sainz after FIA fine. George Russell Supports Carlos Sainz After €20,000 Fine Over Pre-Race Delay.

The Japanese Grand Prix weekend left behind some off-track controversy. Carlos Sainz was fined €20,000 (half of which suspended) by the FIA for failing to be on time for the Japanese national anthem on the starting grid, and George Russell has commented on the matter. The absence was justified by a sudden physical discomfort, but it didn’t stop the FIA stewards from intervening.

George Russell, Mercedes driver and director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, came to Sainz’s defense, explaining in detail the logistical challenges drivers face in the minutes before the start.

“A bathroom pit-stop can be costly,” said Russell

“I fully understand how important the anthem ceremony is, but it’s not that easy for us to be there on time. We’re often forced to rush to the bathroom, and there isn’t always one available. Between last-minute interviews and grid traffic, being punctual isn’t a given.”

Russell then joked about Carlos Sainz’s situation, calling it “a rather expensive poop,” and added: “We’ve been talking about this for six months, but it seems to lead nowhere. All the drivers trust Stefano Domenicali, but collaboration is needed. We can’t keep fighting over these matters.”

Carlos Sainz: “I was wrong, but ten seconds aren’t worth €10,000”

Carlos Sainz addressed the issue during the Bahrain press conference, admitting his mistake but criticizing the severity of the penalty:

“I’m the first to believe in punctuality and respect, especially for a national anthem. But I was late by five seconds. Five seconds for a €10,000 fine? That makes no sense to me. I hope at least that the money goes to charity. If someone tells me where it ends up, I’d appreciate it.”

The Ferrari driver, without much filter, closed with an eloquent “Shit happens,” joking about the incident but risking a further penalty for inappropriate language.

With calls for more common sense and the hope for better dialogue between the FIA, drivers, and organizers, the issue of fines for delays and verbal conduct has become a recurring topic. While focus rightly remains on safety and respecting protocol, there’s a growing need to reassess the proportionality of certain sanctions.