Haas drivers thrown out of qualifying for non-compliant rear wing

Haas’ Nico Hulkenberg and Kevin Magnussen were both stripped of their qualifying results in Monaco after the US outfit’s VF-24 failed a post-session scrutineering.

The FIA stewards discovered that the rear wing Drag Reduction System (DRS) mechanism on both Haas cars exceeded the allowed 85mm maximum opening.

This triggered a disqualification by the officials. Hulkenberg had qualified 12th while Magnussen ser the 15th fastest lap in Q2.

Haas, like other teams, introduced a new rear wing designed for Monaco's high downforce requirements. However, they admitted a mistake in setting up the wing, causing the DRS violation.

While acknowledging the error, the disqualification - which equates to a self-inflicted wound for Haas - stings, especially considering the potential points on offer in Monaco on race day.

• 2024 Monaco Grand Prix - Qualifying results

Hulkenberg and Magnussen will start their race from the back of the grid.

"The team explained that this was the consequence of an inadvertent error on their part in setting the wing flap gap," read a statement from the stewards.

"The wing used was a new design that was used for the first time in Monaco. The old design was set to be compliant with the regulations with the largest gap measured from the centre of the wing.

"Under the new design, the largest gap was at the extremities of the wing but the team had not trained its mechanics to set the gap per the new design, resulting in the non-compliance.

"The team suggested that there was no performance advantage gained by the non-compliance. Article 1.3.3 of the International Sporting Code makes it clear that this is irrelevant. The team was candid in admitting its error."

Haas’ oversight serves as a cautionary tale for all teams, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail required to comply with F1's strict regulations.

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