The F1 penalty points system has become an essential tool for enforcing discipline and encouraging safer driving, but as the 2024 season heats up, some drivers are dangerously close to reaching the 12-point suspension threshold. If any driver accumulates 12 penalty points within a 12-month period, they automatically face a one-race suspension—an outcome that only Kevin Magnussen has faced this season, missing the Azerbaijan GP due to an accumulation of points.
As it stands, Fernando Alonso leads the pack with 8 points, and if he collects just four more before March 2025, he risks suspension. Following him are drivers like Lance Stroll and Max Verstappen, who are edging into the red zone. While Stroll’s five points will begin to reduce in November, he remains at risk, with any additional infractions potentially tipping the scales.
Here’s a look at how the most at-risk drivers found themselves in the danger zone:
- Fernando Alonso: Sitting on 8 points, Alonso received penalties for dangerous driving in Australia and for collisions in China and Austria. One more incident could lead to a suspension for the two-time world champion.
- Max Verstappen: Known for his aggressive racing style, Verstappen picked up points in Las Vegas for forcing a competitor off the track and for a collision in Austria, adding to his tally.
- Sergio Perez: Currently holding 3 points, Perez’s infractions include a collision in Abu Dhabi and an unsafe release in Saudi Arabia.
- Nico Hulkenberg: With points for incidents in Austria and Italy, Hulkenberg’s record reflects some of the tight and unforgiving racing that has characterized this season.
Meanwhile, drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc have managed to maintain clean sheets, though in the fast-paced world of F1, even a small mistake could result in unexpected penalties.
As the final races approach, the likes of Alonso and Stroll will need to exercise extreme caution. With more high-stakes races on the horizon, these drivers face a balancing act between pushing for results and keeping their penalty points in check. Just one more misstep could lead to a suspension, potentially jeopardizing their standing in the championship and sidelining them at a crucial moment in the season.
The 2024 F1 season has proven to be a challenge not just of skill and speed, but also of discipline—making penalty points as significant as podium finishes in the race to the championship.
