Reigning Formula E champion Lucas di Grassi has been fined for wearing non-compliant fireproof underwear at the Punta del Este E-Prix.
Di Grassi swatted aside his dismal start to his title defence by challenging for victory throughout the race, but ultimately had to settle for second place, unable to find a way past championship leader Jean-Eric Vergne.
After claiming his maiden podium of the season, however, di Grassi was summoned to see the stewards post-race where they determined that "after checking the clothes, helmet and FHR [frontal head restraint, or HANS device] of the drivers it was found that the driver [wore] short flamed-resistant underwear pants which are not allowed by the ISC [international sporting code]," according to a statement from the FIA.
As a result of this breach in safety, di Grassi was fined €10,000 and was slapped with three penalty points, although he held onto his second place finish.
"The driver apologised," read the statement.
"The Stewards consider that in this case a fine is sufficient. Penalty points [have] to be added because of the incident against safety regulations."
