Source: REUTERS/Andrew Boyers
[Saba Sports News] The 2025 F1 British Grand Prix should have belonged to Oscar Piastri, but a controversial 10-second penalty cost him his chance of victory at the last moment. In the rain-soaked and chaotic Silverstone track, Piastri initially controlled the race rhythm and seemed destined for another significant win of his career. However, a brake application during the safety car period became the turning point. In the final stage of the race, with complicated track conditions, Piastri briefly braked on the straight during the safety car period. Although he claimed it was a “coincidence when the safety car lights turned off,” the FIA ruled it as “dangerous behavior,” considering that he created a potential hazard during the restart, and imposed a 10-second penalty. This penalty not only cost Piastri the lead but also allowed his teammate Lando Norris to win. After the race, Piastri remained composed but expressed rare dissatisfaction. In the pit lane, he spoke with Nico Hulkenberg, saying, “I got a 10-second penalty because I braked after the safety car, but it was just a coincidence and had nothing to do with driving.” Clearly, his silence betrayed confusion and disappointment with the decision. Team principal Andrea Stella also publicly questioned whether the decision was too strict. He pointed out that with the late return of the safety car, drivers had little time to warm up their tires and brakes, and the sudden drop in track temperature made vehicle control extremely difficult.