After the Abu Dhabi GP, Sergio Perez had to report to the stewards to explain ‘personal insults’ he had made to the stewards and race management. The stewards eventually gave the Mexican an official warning, a reprimand.
The stewards made it clear in their assessment that it is perfectly possible to disagree with their decisions, but that the comments Perez made were ‘personal insults’ that constitute a breach of the regulations. It is striking that the stewards also raised the concern in their assessment that they themselves were targeted by the statements and were therefore directly involved. In such a situation they would normally refer the handling of the ‘file’ to the stewards of the next race, to avoid bias, but as this was the last race of the season they had to make their own judgement.
Sergio Perez, who had to answer for his statements, apologized to the stewards and stated that the statements happened in the ‘heat of the moment’. Perez reportedly also did not take into account that his statements would be broadcast. However, Perez emphasized that he still believes he should not have been punished, although he showed understanding for their side of the story.
In their assessment, the stewards took into account the fact that Perez has always behaved well in the past. Since Perez has apologized and did not want to damage the sport, the stewards are calling for a reprimand.