FIA announce F1 star DISQUALIFIED from Brazilian GP following…read more
The FIA has confirmed the disqualification of Nico Hulkenberg from the Brazilian Grand Prix due to an on-track incident. The race saw multiple investigations and penalties, including a 10-second penalty for McLaren’s Oscar Piastri after causing a collision. Meanwhile, Piastri’s teammate, Lando Norris, awaits a decision on his own potential penalty for an issue with his starting procedure.
During the race’s 27th lap, the Haas driver spun out and triggered a Virtual Safety Car, further adding to the day’s drama. Hulkenberg’s car ended up stranded on the curb, leading to an unusual situation where marshals intervened, physically lifting and pushing his vehicle to move it off the curb. However, this type of assistance is strictly prohibited under FIA regulations, resulting in the harsh penalty of disqualification. The governing body displayed the black flag for car number 27, marking the first time a driver has been disqualified in this manner since 2007, when Giancarlo Fisichella and Felipe Massa were disqualified at the Canadian Grand Prix for exiting the pit lane under a red light.
The black flag is a rare sight in Formula 1, carrying a much greater severity than the red flag, as it signifies immediate disqualification. Drivers shown the black flag must return to the pit lane without delay. Hulkenberg’s disqualification left the Haas team in shock, as neither the driver nor the team seemed initially aware of the decision. Commentator Ted Kravitz, speaking on Sky Sports F1, shared an awkward moment as he revealed that Hulkenberg was standing only a few meters away, apparently oblivious to the FIA’s ruling. Kravitz observed that Haas’ team principal Ayao Komatsu also seemed unaware of the disqualification.
This incident was one of many that disrupted the flow of the Brazilian Grand Prix, with multiple penalties, incidents, and disruptions contributing to the intensity of the event. Hulkenberg’s disqualification, in particular, underscores the strict enforcement of FIA rules regarding on-track assistance, even when involving marshals. The rare use of the black flag not only impacts Hulkenberg’s standing in the race but also serves as a reminder of the strict protocols that all teams and drivers must adhere to during an F1 event.
In a chaotic Brazilian GP filled with challenges, Hulkenberg’s disqualification stands out as a significant moment, sparking discussions about FIA regulations, the role of marshals, and the potential impact on race outcomes when such unexpected events occur.
