Norris and Hülkenberg will not be penalized after their contact during practice

Lando Norris was almost penalized for a contact with Hülkenberg. The incident occurred during FP1. The British driver was starting a quick lap to test the McLaren’s settings. As he approached turn 12, the German driver was beginning his out lap from the pit exit. As Norris attempted to overtake the Haas, he moved to the left side of the track while Hülkenberg did not fully move aside. As they approached the corner, the McLaren driver remained on the right side while the driver of the American car was preparing to turn left.

The result of this maneuver is contact between Hülkenberg’s left front wheel and Norris’ left rear tire. An investigation has been initiated under the principle of Appendix L, Chapter IV, Article 2d of the FIA International Sporting Code.

No further action

After viewing the onboard camera footage of both drivers and listening to the radio conversations, the stewards have decided not to penalize either of the drivers. In a statement, the FIA explained that it was a racing incident and neither of the drivers is more at fault than the other.

A few hours later, Lando Norris had slightly disappointing qualifying sessions. This time, the Orange driver made it to Q3, however, he only achieved the 7th fastest time. Not being penalized, he will start in 7th position on the grid.

On Hülkenberg’s side, the qualifications were more glorious than the last ones. The driver exited just outside of Q3 with an 11th place time. Since he is also not penalized, he will be able to start from the 6th row on the grid on Sunday.