OCTOBER 23, 2023
Hamilton and Leclerc disqualified from USGP
Following the conclusion of the United States Grand Prix in Austin, Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc faced disqualification due to their cars failing to meet the technical regulations. The FIA Technical team discovered inconsistencies in the vehicles during a thorough plank wear inspection.
© Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd.
The Delegate’s Report stated that: “The skids located in the area -825 ≥ XR ≥ - 1025 are found to be not in compliance with Article 3.5.9 e) of the 2023 Formula One Technical Regulations.”
Hamilton, initially finishing in second place just two seconds behind Max Verstappen, was utilizing a newly designed floor, signifying Mercedes’ final significant upgrade of the season introduced at the race in Austin.
Leclerc, on the other hand, managed to finish in sixth place, narrowly edging out George Russell from Mercedes, although he lost ground in the later part of the race.
This unexpected turn of events propels Norris to a second-place finish and uplifts Carlos Sainz to a podium position. Sergio Perez finds himself in fourth place, further solidifying his position over Hamilton in the race for the championship’s runner-up spot.
Russell benefits as well, advancing from seventh to fifth, followed by Pierre Gasly in sixth, and Lance Stroll in seventh. Yuki Tsunoda enjoyed a successful race day for AlphaTauri, securing eighth place plus the additional point for fastest lap.
Williams also celebrated a double points finish with Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant in ninth and tenth, respectively, marking Sargeant’s first-ever point in Formula One, achieved on his home ground.