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FIA announce TWO F1 drivers disqualified after Singapore Grand Prix drama

 

By Hugo Harvey

 

In a dramatic twist following the Singapore Grand Prix qualifying session, the FIA has confirmed the disqualification of two drivers from the same Formula 1 team — Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz — after a technical inspection revealed that both of their cars failed to comply with the sport’s strict aerodynamic regulations. The decision marks one of the most controversial rulings of the weekend and has significant implications for both the Williams team and the grid lineup.

 

Both Albon and Sainz had originally secured promising grid positions, qualifying P12 and P13 respectively. However, their hopes of maintaining those positions were dashed after the FIA’s post-session inspection uncovered a breach of the technical rules relating to the cars’ rear wing design.

 

The FIA’s Formula 1 Technical Delegate, Jo Bauer, was the first to flag the issue. In his official report, Bauer stated:

 

> “The uppermost rear wing element adjustable positions were checked on car numbers 23 and 55. Both cars exceeded the maximum limit of 85 mm on both sides of the rear wing outer area. As this is not in compliance with Technical Regulations Article 3.10.10 (g), I am referring this matter to the stewards for confirmation.”

 

 

 

Following Bauer’s findings, the stewards launched a full review of both vehicles, during which the team representatives and technical staff from Williams were called to provide clarification. After further examination, it was confirmed that both cars’ Drag Reduction System (DRS) configurations had indeed surpassed the allowable limit — leading to a breach of the FIA’s aerodynamic guidelines.

 

In their official verdict, the FIA stewards concluded that the rear wing components on both cars were “noncompliant with the technical regulations” and that the DRS, when deployed, “exceeded the maximum limit of 85 millimetres on both sides of the rear wing outer area.”

 

The ruling meant that both Albon and Sainz were officially disqualified from qualifying, forcing the pair to surrender their mid-grid starting positions. The decision comes as a heavy blow to Williams, particularly after a competitive performance throughout the practice sessions in Singapore, where both drivers had shown encouraging pace.

 

Williams, however, did not contest the ruling. In their statement to the stewards, the team admitted that their pre-session checks had shown the rear wings to be compliant. Nevertheless, when the FIA conducted its independent measurements, the gap between the rear wing flaps and the fixed elements appeared slightly larger than allowed — a discrepancy that may have resulted from minute tolerances or the extreme conditions at Marina Bay.

 

Accepting full responsibility, the team agreed with the FIA’s findings and expressed their commitment to ensuring such an error does not occur again. “While our internal checks indicated compliance, we fully respect the FIA’s process and the accuracy of their measurements,” a Williams spokesperson said. “We accept the decision and will take the necessary steps to prevent a repeat of this situation.”

 

Despite the disqualification, the FIA granted both drivers permission to start the race from the back of the grid. This ruling allows Albon and Sainz to participate in Sunday’s main event but from the final row — a stark contrast to where they had hoped to begin.

 

The penalty is particularly disappointing for Albon, who has been one of Williams’ standout performers this season, consistently outperforming expectations in a car that has often struggled for outright pace. Similarly, for Sainz, the setback is frustrating, especially given his recent strong performances that have earned him praise as one of the most consistent drivers on the grid.

 

Technical infringements like this are rare but not unprecedented in Formula 1. Even a few millimetres outside the regulations can lead to severe consequences, as aerodynamic efficiency plays a crucial role in car performance. The FIA’s zero-tolerance approach to such matters reinforces its commitment to maintaining fairness and consistency across all teams.

 

As the Singapore Grand Prix gets underway, all eyes will be on how the Williams duo respond to this setback. Starting from the back row, both drivers face an uphill battle through one of the most physically demanding circuits on the calendar. However, with strategy, safety cars, and unpredictable conditions often shaping the outcome at Marina Bay, a recovery drive cannot be ruled out.

 

For now, though, the spotlight remains on the technical breach that sent shockwaves through the paddock — a reminder that in Formula 1, precision is everything, and even the smallest oversight can turn a strong qualifying result into a night of disappointment.

 

 

 

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