Red Bull driver Isack Hadjar could face disciplinary action from the FIA after an incident involving a Formula 1 fan in the paddock ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix. Footage circulating on social media appears to show the Frenchman physically pushing a spectator who had approached him for a photograph, prompting the governing body to launch an investigation.
The incident happened on Friday at the Autódromo Hermanos RodrÃguez, following a difficult opening practice session for Hadjar. While the 21-year-old was making his way through the paddock, a male fan approached him and attempted to put an arm around his shoulder to take a selfie.
Hadjar initially appeared to reject the approach by holding the fan away with an outstretched arm. Although the spectator subsequently backed away, the Red Bull driver then appeared to give him a forceful shove before continuing on his way.
The encounter was captured on video and quickly circulated across social media, attracting attention because of Hadjar’s reaction.
FIA launches investigation into Hadjar incident
The FIA has confirmed that an investigation has been opened into the incident involving the Red Bull driver.
According to sport.de, the investigation concerns Article 12.2.1.l of the FIA International Sporting Code, which covers conduct that could bring motorsport into disrepute.
If found to have breached the regulations, Hadjar could receive a financial penalty of up to €5,000. A more severe punishment could theoretically follow if the FIA considers the incident to constitute a serious breach.
However, there is currently no indication that the governing body intends to pursue anything beyond a possible fine.
The investigation means Hadjar could face an uncomfortable conversation with FIA officials during an already demanding Mexican Grand Prix weekend.
Difficult start to the Mexican Grand Prix
The circumstances surrounding the encounter may help explain Hadjar’s apparent frustration, although they do not necessarily justify his reaction.
The Frenchman had endured a difficult opening practice session, with technical problems affecting his running and preventing him from finding the pace required to challenge towards the front.
He eventually finished FP1 in 11th position, leaving him with work to do ahead of the remainder of the weekend.
Hadjar’s frustration may have been compounded by the pressure of representing Red Bull, particularly during a season in which expectations surrounding the team’s young driver programme remain high.
Nevertheless, drivers are regularly approached by supporters in the paddock, and managing those interactions is part of the increasingly public-facing nature of Formula 1.
There is an important distinction between a driver having the right to refuse photographs and physical contact and how that refusal is communicated.
Red Bull already dealing with Verstappen controversy
The incident also comes at an uncomfortable time for Red Bull, with Max Verstappen having attracted the attention of the stewards following his own controversial encounter with Liam Lawson during Friday’s running in Mexico.
Verstappen received a grid penalty after the on-track incident, adding another complication to Red Bull’s preparations for the Grand Prix.
Hadjar’s situation is entirely separate, but the team now has another matter involving one of its drivers to manage.
For the young Frenchman, the immediate priority will be to put the incident behind him and concentrate on his performance at the Autódromo Hermanos RodrÃguez.
However, the FIA investigation means the paddock confrontation could continue to follow him throughout the Mexican Grand Prix weekend.
The final outcome will depend on the governing body’s assessment of the available footage and the circumstances surrounding the encounter.
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