Alex Albon reprimanded by the FIA, Lewis Hamilton is ultimately not penalized
The Thai driver receives a reprimand for dangerously rejoining the track after leaving it. Lewis Hamilton, on the other hand, escapes without any penalty.
Lewis Hamilton and Alex Albon were facing a five-place penalty after leaving the track and subsequently rejoining it “in a dangerous manner,” the FIA wrote in a statement. After hearing from both drivers, the race stewards ultimately decided to issue a reprimand to Alex Albon, his first of the year.
“Alex Albon left the track at turn 8 at the end of Q1. He then returned to the track by taking the racing line. Although he had to return to the racing line, the stewards believe that he could have done more to ensure that he rejoined it safely while another car was approaching,” indicates the FIA.
On his side, Lewis Hamilton comes out of it with no further action.
“The stewards listened to Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, the team’s representative, and reviewed the videos, team radio recordings, and onboard footage. Hamilton explained that he had been warned about Bottas’ approach and had moved off the racing line by going off track in this specific case. Russell explained that he had received the same warning but had moved off the racing line later. He also explained that being on the same program as Hamilton, he was fully aware of what Hamilton was doing and that the maneuver was never dangerous. The stewards agree and will not take any further action,” wrote the FIA.
