According to F1 rules (Article 19.4 b) introduced this year, all drivers must be in position for the national anthem exactly 46 minutes before the race begins. Carlos Sainz didn’t arrive on time at the Japanese Grand Prix, which is why he was given a fine.

He explained that he had stomach problems and wasn’t feeling well before the race and the race stewards accepted this as a fair reason.

Normally, the fine for this kind of mistake is €60,000, but because of his condition, the amount was reduced to €20,000. Half of it is also suspended for 12 months, which means Sainz only has to pay that extra amount if he breaks the same rule again within a year from now.

The official verdict document states: "Penalty Guidelines prescribed in Appendix B of the FIA International Sporting Code list a penalty for this offence of €60,000.

"However in mitigation, the Driver stated that just prior to the Anthem, he experienced discomfort due a stomach issue which delayed his appearance on the grid. This was verified by Dr Messina of Med-Ex who confirmed the issue and stated he had provided appropriate medication for the driver."

This rule isn’t only for Formula 1. It also applies to other FIA racing series, like WEC and WRC. Sainz also isn’t the first driver to be fined for this. Last year, Yuki Tsunoda was given a €10,000 fine in Canada for the same thing, but at that time, the rules were a bit more relaxed.