Unsafe Release Results in €5,000 Fine for Racing Bulls Team

The Racing Bulls team has been penalized following an unsafe release of driver Isack Hadjar during the Chinese Grand Prix qualifying. This incident occurred during Q3, where Hadjar exited his garage in front of reigning champion Max Verstappen, necessitating a swift evasive maneuver from Verstappen’s RB21 machinery to avoid contact. Although there was no actual contact, the potential danger prompted a €5,000 fine against .

FIA Investigation and Findings

The FIA conducted an investigation into the incident, hearing from Hadjar, Verstappen, team representatives, and reviewing various data, video, and in-car video evidence. Their verdict stated that Hadjar followed the instructions of his pit lane representative and exited the garage when requested to do so, albeit slightly late. This delay resulted in Hadjar being released into Verstappen’s path, forcing him to take evasive action to avoid a collision or risk damaging his tires if he had braked hard. The team representative admitted their mistake in this instance.

As a result of the investigation, the FIA imposed a fine of €5,000 on the Racing Bulls team. Despite the penalty, Hadjar will still start from seventh on the grid for tomorrow’s Grand Prix.

No Penalty for Ollie Bearman of Haas

Meanwhile, Ollie Bearman of Haas has not been penalized for his alleged impeding of Aston Martin‘s Lance Stroll during the qualifying session. After visiting the stewards, Bearman was cleared of any wrongdoing and will start in 17th position for tomorrow’s race. Stroll, on the other hand, will begin from 14th.