Bottas receives first reprimand of season for São Paulo pit-exit breach

The stewards reprimanded Valtteri Bottas for a driving infringement during reconnaissance laps at the 2026 São Paulo Grand Prix. It was his first reprimand of the season.

The stewards said car 77 had not performed a practice start and failed to cross the white line separating the pit-exit road from the track at the earliest opportunity and join the normal racing line. The decision cited Article 12.2.1.i of the FIA International Sporting Code and non-compliance with item 5.7 of the Race Director’s Event Note.

The notice reminds competitors that certain stewards’ decisions may be appealed within the applicable time limits.