Can a driver be penalised for causing a qualifying session to be stopped?

A driver can indeed be penalized for causing a qualifying session to be stopped, and this is often viewed as a serious offense in motorsport. Such penalties are typically enforced to maintain the integrity of the competition and to ensure that all participants have an equal opportunity to compete under consistent conditions. If a driver's actions, whether intentional or unintentional, result in a flag or stoppage, it can disrupt the qualifying process for all competitors. This is why penalties are common; they serve as a deterrent against careless or reckless driving that could jeopardize the fairness of the event.

The rationale for imposing penalties reinforces the importance of safe and responsible behavior on the track. It emphasizes that all drivers must adhere to the regulations and conduct themselves in a manner that is considerate to their fellow competitors. In sum, past incidents and regulatory standards illustrate that taking action against offenders promotes a fair and exciting racing environment.