Ferrari Admits Lewis Hamilton’s Chinese Grand Prix Disqualification Was Due to…read more
In a shocking twist at the 2024 Chinese Grand Prix, Ferrari has acknowledged that Lewis Hamilton’s disqualification was a result of the Mercedes W15 losing a key aerodynamic trait that played a crucial role in the race. The seven-time world champion was stripped of his fourth-place finish after a post-race inspection found his car non-compliant with FIA regulations.
Ferrari’s Revelation
Ferrari’s team principal, Frédéric Vasseur, stated in an interview that Hamilton’s Mercedes lacked sufficient plank wear resistance, a key trait that many top teams, including Ferrari and Red Bull, have carefully engineered into their 2024 challengers.
“We knew the track conditions in Shanghai would be harsh on the cars, especially with the high-speed corners and aggressive braking zones,” Vasseur explained. “Mercedes seemed to struggle with maintaining their ride height, which ultimately led to excessive plank wear and a clear violation of the FIA’s technical regulations.”
Hamilton’s Reaction & Mercedes’ Response
Hamilton, who initially believed he had secured a solid points finish, was left frustrated by the decision. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff defended the team, suggesting that their set-up miscalculation contributed to the issue rather than any intentional rule breach.
“It’s disappointing because we were competitive today,” Hamilton said post-race. “The car felt good, but ultimately, we didn’t anticipate the impact of the track on our setup.”
What This Means for the Championship
Hamilton’s disqualification dealt a blow to his fight for podium finishes this season, while Ferrari and Red Bull’s continued dominance put them in a commanding position. With the Miami Grand Prix next on the calendar, Mercedes faces pressure to rectify their car’s issues and ensure compliance with FIA regulations moving forward.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
