Title: Disqualification Drama: Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc Ousted from the US GP

Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc disqualified from US GP: Mercedes will ‘learn’ from rules breach

Mercedes explain why they believe they were caught out over plank wear

By

Mercedes faced disappointment after Lewis Hamilton’s disqualification from the United States Grand Prix due to a technical infringement on his car. Hamilton’s second-place finish was lost after wear levels on the planks underneath his car were found to have exceeded the limits set out in F1’s regulations. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc was also disqualified from sixth place due to the same issue. Mercedes’ trackside engineering director, Andrew Shovlin, expressed their disappointment and stated that they would learn from the experience. However, both Hamilton and Leclerc have joined forces for a collaboration post on their Instagram accounts, showcasing their shared disappointment.

Explaining F1 Cars’ Plank

F1 cars have a plank on the underside of the chassis. It is a safety measure to regulate ride height and ensure cars do not run too close to the ground. Although they are not made of wood anymore, they were initially made of wood laminate when they were first introduced. The planks used today are made of a more complex structure featuring glass-reinforced resin. The plank was mandated on cars in 1994 as part of safety measures introduced after the tragic events of Imola, when Ayrton Senna and Roland Ratzenberger died in accidents.

The Disqualification Process

The issues with Hamilton and Leclerc’s cars were discovered during the regular post-race scrutineering in the pit lane. The checks were carried out by the FIA’s technical delegate Jo Bauer. While some checks are conducted on all classified finishing cars, others are carried out on a random basis. In this case, four cars were inspected for physical floor and plank wear, and only the Mercedes and Ferrari were found to be non-compliant. The matter was then referred to the stewards, resulting in the disqualifications.

Zero-Tolerance Approach

While the potential advantage or disadvantage of plank wear cannot be quantified, the FIA has a zero-tolerance approach to technical infringements. Regardless of mitigating circumstances, violators are usually disqualified. Mercedes and Ferrari have acknowledged their mistake and the specific challenges of the Sprint format and the bumpy Circuit of the Americas track. Both teams have chosen not to appeal the decision, accepting responsibility for the breach of regulations.

Impact on Championships

The double disqualification had significant consequences for the championship standings. Sergio Perez, who was leading Hamilton by 19 points, now has a 39-point lead after Hamilton lost 18 points. The revised results also resulted in Ferrari overtaking Mercedes for second place in the constructors’ championship, reducing the deficit to 22 points. Lando Norris benefited from the disqualification, moving ahead of Leclerc in the standings and closing the gap to fourth-placed Fernando Alonso. Williams and AlphaTauri also gained crucial points, with Williams solidifying their seventh-place position and AlphaTauri doubling their season total.

Editorial: Lessons to be Learned

The disqualification of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc from the US GP highlights the importance of adhering to technical regulations in Formula 1. While it is unfortunate that both drivers lost their hard-earned positions, it is crucial for teams to prioritize compliance to maintain the integrity of the sport. This incident serves as a reminder that even the most successful teams can make mistakes and should consistently strive to learn and improve.

The FIA’s zero-tolerance approach to technical infringements may seem harsh, but it ensures a level playing field for all competitors. F1 is a sport that demands precision and adherence to rules. Any potential advantage gained from non-compliance undermines the fairness of the competition. Therefore, it is essential for teams to prioritize thorough checks and balances throughout race weekends to avoid such incidents.

Advice for Mercedes and Ferrari

Mercedes and Ferrari should take this disqualification as an opportunity for self-reflection and improvement. The teams should review their procedures and practices to ensure compliance with technical regulations. Adequate setup time and consideration of track conditions should be prioritized to avoid exceeding wear limits on important components like planks. Taking a proactive approach to compliance will not only prevent future disqualifications but also enhance the teams’ reputation for fair play.

Furthermore, the collaboration between Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc on social media demonstrates the sportsmanship and respect between the drivers. While the disqualification may have been disappointing for both, their ability to unite in the face of adversity is commendable and sets a positive example for the sport. F1 is not just about individual victories but also about the values of camaraderie and mutual respect among competitors.