Hamilton at risk of qualifying exclusion for DRS infringement!

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Lewis Hamilton is at risk of being excluded from Friday's qualifying session following a potential technical infringement of his Mercedes car's DRS.

The Briton set the pace in the qualifying session that will define the grid order for Saturday's sprint race.

However, all could be lost over a DRS technical infringement as Mercedes has been summoned to the FIA stewards, with an investigation ongoing on the W12's rear wing and DRS element.

"The uppermost rear wing element adjustable positions were checked on car number 44 for compliance with Article 3.6.3 of the 2021 Formula One Technical Regulations," stated a bulletin written up by FIA technical delegate Jo Bauer.

"The requirement for the minimum distance was fulfilled. But the requirement for the maximum of 85mm, when the DRS system is deployed and tested in accordance with TD/011-19, were not fulfilled.

"I am referring this matter to the stewards for their consideration."

Read also - Hamilton: 'It feels great' to nail quali set-up in Sao Paulo!

If a technical infringement by Mercedes is confirmed, Hamilton could be excluded from the qualifying session's results which would equate to a back row start for the Briton in Saturday's sprint race.

Hamilton is already set for a five-place grid drop for race day, regardless of where he finishes tomorrow's sprint race.

UPDATE:

The FIA stewards in Sao Paulo will rule on Mercedes' DRS technical infringement and on whether Lewis Hamilton is excluded or not from qualifying on Saturday morning.

Max Verstappen has also been summoned to the stewards for allegedly touching Hamilton's car in Parc Fermé.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.