Race Stewards’ Decisions: Dutch Grand Prix Recap
Several incidents at the Dutch Grand Prix required review by the race stewards, resulting in penalties and investigations. Here’s a breakdown of the key decisions:
Hamilton Penalized for Yellow Flag Infraction
Lewis Hamilton will receive a five-place grid penalty for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix,along with two penalty points on his licence. The penalty stems from a violation of yellow flag regulations before the start of the race, while drivers were positioning on the grid.Double yellow flags were displayed in the final turn before the pit entry to ensure safety for drivers on the grid and in the pit lane. Regulations mandate drivers to “significantly reduce speed” when passing a double yellow flag sector. while telemetry data showed Hamilton slowed by approximately 20 km/h compared to qualifying laps, and lifted off the throttle 70 meters earlier, stewards determined this reduction wasn’t “notable” enough.The standard penalty for this infraction is a 10-place grid drop, but mitigating circumstances – Hamilton’s attempt to slow down and earlier braking - led to a reduced penalty of five places.
Leclerc/Russell Collision Deemed a Racing Incident
The collision between Charles Leclerc and George Russell in Turn 12 was investigated, but ultimately deemed a racing incident, with no further penalties issued. Russell lost control in Turn 11, leading to the contact. Stewards reviewed evidence, including whether Leclerc left the track, and concluded that neither driver was solely at fault. Both drivers considered it a racing incident, and the stewards concurred.
Bortoleto Avoids Penalty Despite Damage
Arthur Bortoleto was investigated after contact with Lance Stroll at the start of the race damaged his front wing. A portion of the wing later detached during the race. The team appeared before the stewards to address concerns about whether Bortoleto continued to race in an unsafe condition.
Stewards considered Article 26.10, which requires a driver to return to the pits if significant damage creates an immediate risk. They also reviewed directives regarding self-reporting damage. Though, they determined that the detached wing component did not impact the race or cause damage to other cars, and thus no penalty was applied. Bortoleto finished the race in 15th position.Source: FIA.
