Hadjar reprimanded by stewards following paddock fan altercation

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Isack Hadjar has received a formal warning from the Mexico City Grand Prix stewards following a tense paddock altercation that took place in the paddock prior to Friday’s opening practice.

The incident unfolded when the Red Bull driver shoved a paddock guest who was attempting to snap a selfie.

Summoned to the stewards’ office on Saturday morning under Article 12.2.1.l of the FIA International Sporting Code for "alleged misconduct," Hadjar explained that he was rushing to his team’s garage for FP1.

After taking time to pose with a young fan, he was "approached by a paddock guest in an aggressive manner", as video footage showed across social media indicated.

Official documents noted that although a security officer was present behind the Frenchman, they were "unable to intervene and prevent what was tantamount to an invasion of the driver's private space".

After initially resisting the advance, Hadjar "pushed him aside with his open right hand".

Stewards find extenuating circumstances

While confirming a breach of misconduct rules, race officials opted for leniency, citing five key mitigating factors outlined in Appendix B of the ISC.

The panel acknowledged Hadjar was "reacting to an uninvited and rather aggressive action by another person" while navigating a congested area to reach his pit box on time.

Furthermore, they accepted that the driver lacked "sufficient" security support, faced an unconsented invasion of personal space, and was caught up in the "general issue" drivers face while moving through overcrowded paddock environments.

With only a reprimand recorded, the Frenchman can refocus his efforts entirely back on the track.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.