FIA Race Director Michael Masi has insisted that Haas F1 team driver Nikita Mazepin should not be labeled a “bad boy” as there are other drivers who have penalty points in the current Formula 1 season. At the recently concluded Russian Grand Prix at the Sochi Autodrom, Mazepin was shown the black and white flag for obstructing Alpha Tauris Yuki Tsunoda. He was also punished at the Italian Grand Prix, the Portuguese Grand Prix, the Spanish Grand Prix and the Austrian Grand Prix.
As reported by GP fans, when asked about Mazepin’s reputation as a bad boy, which led him to see the stewards on a few occasions, Michael Masi said, “He’s probably had a few steward visits, but nothing. I think once you’ve gone through it and looked at everything there are likely other or more drivers so I wouldn’t suggest there is anything uncomfortable or worrying about. Of course we look at that and investigate each incident separately. If it is worth investigating, the stewards will look at the evidence they have and then decide whether or not a penalty is required. Masi has made it clear, however, that the FIA seriously disapproves of the Tsunoda incident. At turn 12, it was only the train that he encountered Yuki so late that was overtaking with DRS. It’s one of the things we’ve said a couple of times that we’re going to be putting out black and white for. That it is unsporting and we will not tolerate it. ”
Sergio Perez has penalized the most points after 15 races in the 2021 F1 season
Masi also spoke about Mazepin’s aggressive driving style, saying that Formula 1 has 20 different driving styles during the races. He added that the FIA is investigating incidents related to the incidents. Masi’s words are backed up by the fact that Red Bull Racing driver Sergio Perez has seven penalty points from four races, while Aston Martin’s Sebastian Vettel has six points from three incidents. Williams driver Nicholas Latifi was penalized with six points for two incidents, while Nikita Mazepin also received six penalty points.
