Steiner: “If it’s 50/50, there should be no sanctions”

Unsurprisingly, the sanction imposed on Sebastian Vettel during the last Canadian Grand Prix continues to cause a stir and naturally animates discussions in the paddock at the Circuit Paul Ricard. 

Invited to speak about the situation, Guenther Steiner first tried to dodge the question with a humorous pirouette by declaring that the team Haas already had enough dealings with race management to worry about the fate of his competitors.

« I haven't studied the case in depth so I prefer to remain cautious., he added in a more serious tone. For me, it's 50/50. And in this type of situation, I would like us not to impose sanctions, even if the decision does not go in our favor. I've always said it. There are too many rules and sanctions. If things aren't clear enough, let's do nothing. 

We were having a great fight in Canada. Afterwards, if we want to kill the race and the spirit of the sport, we just have to do a simulation before the start and that's it. We don't need to come anymore. That said, thank goodness I'm not part of the college of commissioners ». 

Steiner has often campaigned for more consistency in official decisions but he recognizes that the right of review exercised by Ferrari could open a Pandora's Box and give rise to endless debates. 

« This may set a precedent that will generate confusion more than anything else, added the Italian manager. Afterwards, Ferrari felt that it had enough elements to act and then this would be a wake-up call for the commissioners. ».

Vettel's penalty will be examined again this Friday at 14:15 p.m. during a video conference which will bring together Montreal officials.