Carlos Sainz retains race position after stewards’ investigation

Carlos Sainz was under investigation by the race stewards after a presumed obstruction of Alex Albon during Saturday’s qualifying. The incident occurred at the chicane at turns 15 and 16, prompting allegations of a breach of Article 37.5 of the FIA Sporting Regulations.

The stewards reviewed the facts and heard statements from the drivers involved as well as team representatives. They also reviewed videos, radio communications, and onboard video evidence. It was established that Alex Albon, on a fast lap, caught up with Carlos Sainz in the chicane, indicates an FIA statement.

Sainz had been informed by his team of Albon’s approach. He tried to move away from the racing line as quickly as possible to make room for the Williams driver at the exit of turn 16. However, given the narrow nature of the chicane and the Monaco circuit, the presence of the Ferrari driver had an impact on the Thai driver.

Carlos Sainz admitted that with hindsight, he may have been able to go off the track to give Albon more space, but he felt he had not unnecessarily hindered him since he had taken the necessary measures on the track to leave room for him.

On his side, Albon was able to complete his fast lap and, although he may have lost half a second, he acknowledged that the situation was “grey” as to whether he had been unnecessarily impeded. He did not think it was a clear case of obstruction. He also acknowledged that this part of the track was particularly challenging, with a series of blind corners, and that Sainz would not have been able to see car 23 approaching earlier.

Taking these elements into account, the stewards have decided not to take any further action against Carlos Sainz, allowing him to keep his qualifying position without penalty, namely third place on the starting grid.