Carlos Sainz has been given a 3-place grid drop for the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix. Following an incident between Sainz and Lewis Hamilton.
The incident occurred in Turn 1, at the end of Q2. Hamilton was on a flying lap, with Sainz on an in-lap after being knocked out of the session. The seven-time World Champion was forced to take evasive action and leave the track to avoid contact. Ultimately, the seven-time world champion aborted his final flying lap and was left frustrated.
The incident was immediately noted and sent to the stewards for further investigation post-session.
Stewards’ explanation
The stewards’ investigation found the Spaniard to be in breach of Article 37.5 of the FIA Formula One Sporting Regulations. According to the Stewards, Sainz was on his in-lap after completing a push lap when Hamilton approached at high speed starting his timed lap.
Despite the approach speed and positioning of Sainz, he had received no warning from his team. The Williams driver informed the stewards that he was caught entirely by surprise and did not see Hamilton. This was due to the angle of his car and the limited visibility around the circuit.
Regardless of his reasoning, the FIA believed Williams had ample time to give Sainz a heads-up, on the car behind him. In turn, the Spanish Driver was awarded a three-place grid penalty for tomorrow’s race.
Hard day made worse for Sainz
This penalty adds more frustration for the Spanish Driver. Sainz narrowly missed out on Q3, qualifying down in twelfth. Unfortunately, the grid drop means he will be demoted to fifteenth on the grid for tomorrow’s Japanese Grand Prix.
Sainz, who has struggled at the beginning of his career at Williams Racing, will be eager to redeem himself. Changeable conditions are forecasted for tomorrow’s Grand Prix, meaning anything is possible for the Spaniard.
