The FIA is standing by its decision to penalise McLaren driver Lando Norris at the Qatar Grand Prix.

Norris was given a 10-second stop-and-go penalty for failing to lift the throttle while double yellow flags were being waved.

The 25-year-old dropped from second to last among the remaining drivers, with the decision having a big impact in the Constructors' Championship battle.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff described the penalty as "brutal" in an interview with Sky Sports and accused officials of lacking consistency.

However, in a statement released on Monday, F1's governing body explained why the decision was the correct one.

"The penalty was in accordance with the penalty guidelines circulated to the teams on 19 February 2024," part of the statement read.

"A double yellow flag infringement is considered a serious compromise of safety, which is why such offences carry such a severe penalty."

The FIA went on to state that the specific scenario would be reviewed and a new process may be established down the line.

McLaren's lead over Ferrari has been cut to 21 points heading into the final round of the season in Abu Dhabi next weekend.