Hamilton Disqualified from Chinese Grand Prix for Technical Infraction
Lewis Hamilton faced dramatic disqualification from the Chinese Grand Prix due to a technical regulation breach concerning his Ferrari’s ride height.
The ruling was issued nearly three hours post-race in the darkened paddock.
Despite initially finishing sixth in the race, which saw Oscar Piastri take victory, the seven-time world champion will now be stripped of his eight championship points.
Adding to Ferrari’s woes, Hamilton’s teammate, Charles Leclerc, also faced disqualification from the results. Leclerc, who initially finished fifth, was penalized for driving a car that failed to meet the minimum weight requirement.
Alpine driver Pierre Gasly, who crossed the finish line in 11th place, suffered the same fate as Leclerc, also being disqualified for a technical infringement.
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FIA Stewards’ Decision
FIA stewards explained the rationale behind Hamilton’s disqualification, stating: “Stewards convened with the team representative of Car 44 (Lewis Hamilton). Measurements of the plank assembly of Car 44 revealed thicknesses of 8.6mm (LHS), 8.6mm (centerline), and 8.5mm (RHS). These measurements fall short of the minimum 9mm thickness mandated by Article 3.5.9 of the Formula One Technical Regulations.”
Team Acknowledges Error
During the hearing, the team representative conceded the accuracy of the measurements and confirmed adherence to protocol. Furthermore, the team admitted the absence of extenuating factors, attributing the issue to a “genuine error.”
Sprint Race Success Contrasts Sunday Struggles
Despite a commendable performance in Saturday’s Sprint race, which marked Hamilton’s first victory since his transfer from Mercedes, Sunday’s main race proved challenging for the driver.
Race Day Frustrations
Radio communications revealed instances of disagreement between the 40-year-old driver and his race engineer, Riccardo Adami. Hamilton also ceded track position to teammate Charles Leclerc, culminating in a disappointing race outcome.
Leclerc and Gasly Face Similar Penalties
Leclerc was the first to be informed of his disqualification. Stewards cited the lack of “mitigating circumstances,” with Ferrari confirming a “genuine error” on their part.
Gasly’s disqualification was confirmed shortly thereafter, compounding the list of penalized drivers.