F1: Sainz Receives Three-Position Grid Drop for Hindering Hamilton in Japanese GP Qualifying
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Synopsis
Carlos Sainz has been penalized with a three-place grid drop for obstructing Lewis Hamilton during Q2 of the Japanese GP Qualifying. This decision means Sainz will fall from P12 to P15, impacting his starting position for the upcoming race at Suzuka Circuit.
Key Takeaways
- Sainz received a three-place grid penalty.
- Penalty was due to impeding Hamilton during Qualifying.
- He drops from P12 to P15 on the grid.
- Hamilton expressed frustration over the incident.
- The incident highlights Sainz's adjustment period at Williams.
Suzuka, April 5 (NationPress) Carlos Sainz has received a three-place grid penalty for obstructing Lewis Hamilton during Q2 of Saturday’s Qualifying for the Japanese Grand Prix, resulting in the Spaniard dropping from P12 to P15.
During the session, Hamilton was on a push lap when he came across a slower Sainz at Turn 1 while completing his in-lap. This led to the seven-time World Champion expressing his frustration over the radio after having to veer off the track to avoid the Williams car.
The situation was subsequently referred to the stewards for review after Qualifying. Following a hearing, it was confirmed that Sainz would incur a three-position grid drop at his next race, which is set for Sunday at the Suzuka Circuit.
A report released post-hearing revealed that Sainz and team representatives provided statements, and evidence from data, video, and radio communications was examined. The document noted: “The driver of Car 55 indicated he had no warning from the team about the approaching Car 44 on a push lap.
“He claimed he was completely taken by surprise and, due to the speed of Car 44 and the angle of his own car, he could not see Car 44 in his mirrors.
“However, it is important to mention that the team had sufficient warning that Car 44 was on an out lap while Car 55 was on its push lap. Additionally, over 8 seconds passed from when it became clear that Car 44 was not heading to the pits, indicating it would be starting a push lap, to when Car 55 could have taken necessary action had the driver received a warning from his team.
“It is noted that the standard penalty guideline for this infraction during Qualifying, regardless of whether the fault lies with the driver or the team, is a three-grid position penalty, and thus the Stewards have concluded that the standard penalty should be enforced.”
Initially finishing Q2 in 12th position, Sainz will now be pushed back to 15th place, which promotes Fernando Alonso, Liam Lawson, and Yuki Tsunoda to P12, P13, and P14 respectively.
This incident adds to the challenges Sainz has faced during his transition to Williams as he adapts to the FW47 following his move from Ferrari.
