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Hulkenberg Excluded from Bahrain Grand Prix Results Due to Technical Infraction
Formula One racer Nico Hulkenberg faced disqualification from the Bahrain Grand Prix after race stewards cited a breach of regulations regarding excessive wear on his car’s skid block. This infraction, similar to the one that led to Lewis Hamilton’s exclusion from the Chinese Grand Prix earlier this season, has nullified Hulkenberg’s on-track performance at the Sakhir International Circuit.
Race Performance Undone by Post-Race Checks
The seasoned German driver had a strong showing at the Sakhir track, finishing 13th and outperforming his rookie teammate Gabriel Bortoleto throughout the race weekend. However, this result was overturned when FIA officials identified an irregularity during the mandatory post-race examinations conducted in Parc Ferme.
FIA Report Cites Regulation Breach
According to the official FIA report, measurements taken from car number 27’s plank assembly revealed it to be below the mandated minimum thickness. The report stated: “The plank assembly of Car 27 was measured and found to be 8.4mm (LHS), 8.5mm (car centerline) and 8.4mm (RHS). This falls short of the minimum 9mm thickness stipulated under Article 3.5.9 e) of the Technical Regulations.”
Team Admits Error, Stewards Impose Penalty
During the subsequent hearing, Sauber representatives confirmed the accuracy of the FIA’s measurements and acknowledged that all procedural steps were correctly executed. The team conceded that the infraction was a genuine mistake on their part.
The stewards, in their determination, stated: “The Stewards determine that Article 3.5.9 e) of the FIA Formula One Technical Regulations has been contravened and therefore the standard sanction of a disqualification must be applied for such a transgression.”
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Disqualification Adds to Sauber’s Challenges
While Hulkenberg’s disqualification does not impact Sauber’s points tally from the Bahrain GP, it marks another disappointing outcome in what has been a challenging season for the Hinwil-based team. The squad has been striving for improved performance throughout the current Formula 1 campaign.
Wheatley’s Expertise Anticipated to Bolster Sauber
Despite securing six points in a dramatic season-opening race in Australia, the team, formerly led by Jonathan Wheatley, has generally appeared to be among the slower competitors on the grid. Rookie driver Bortoleto is still pursuing his first top-ten finish in Formula 1.
Wheatley, previously a key figure at Red Bull, is widely tipped to be instrumental in leading Sauber into a new chapter, particularly with the impending Audi rebranding at the conclusion of the 2025 season. Hulkenberg himself believes Wheatley’s vast experience could be crucial for the Sauber outfit.
Hulkenberg Highlights Wheatley’s Potential Impact
“It’s still early days, just one race weekend in,” Hulkenberg commented in Bahrain. “Obviously he’s extremely busy, with numerous aspects requiring his attention and many impressions to absorb. I anticipate he needs to form a comprehensive understanding of the team’s operations and then gradually initiate changes.”
“It’s possible he will implement changes, but it’s also possible he won’t, it remains to be seen. However, having someone of his caliber, with his extensive expertise, experience, and track record of success, is undoubtedly beneficial for the team’s future trajectory and progression.” Wheatley concluded his role as sporting director at Red Bull in 2024, after having been part of Christian Horner’s operation since 2006.