Why was Vettel not penalized for his departure?

Spectators and followers of the 2019 Japanese Grand Prix were left scratching their heads after the controversial start of Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari) at Suzuka. The German pilot clearly moved his car while the five red lights were still on, before stopping and then starting again once the start was given.

This is also the reason why the quadruple world champion missed his flight, getting colds from both Mercedes. After a detailed review by the Race Direction (of which Tom Kristensen was exceptionally part this weekend), it was decided not to impose a penalty on the driver. 

FIA Race Director Michael Masi explained to reporters his reasons for keeping the yellow card in his pocket. “We actually had the signal from our sensors (placed on the tarmac. Editor’s note) indicating an early departure. 

However, it was within tolerances, and the best analogy to establish would be with what Valtteri (Bottas) in Austria (In 2017)." We won't know more.

The FIA ​​does not contradict the fact that Sebastian Vettel moved before the start. What allows him to get away with it without worry is the degree of the movement, which does not exceed the tolerance threshold scrutinized by the FIA. What exactly is this threshold? Michael Masi did not communicate this. 

Find in AUTO issue 2238hebdo, on sale Monday evening in digital version and Wednesday on newsstands, analysis of the Japanese GP by our special correspondents.