FIA Launches Investigation on Lewis Hamilton at Brazilian Grand Prix After C…read more
A fresh wave of drama has hit the Formula 1 paddock as Lewis Hamilton finds himself under scrutiny from FIA race stewards following an alleged yellow flag infringement during the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend. The seven-time world champion’s qualifying session took a dramatic turn after chaos involving Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc — and the fallout may yet deepen.
The controversy unfolded during the sprint qualifying session (SQ2), when Ferrari’s Leclerc lost control of his car and spun out, triggering double-waved yellow flags. This incident disrupted several drivers’ final laps, including Hamilton’s, who was unable to complete a flying lap and therefore missed out on advancing to SQ3. The timing of Leclerc’s spin could not have been worse for Hamilton, who had been on a competitive lap that might have seen him safely through to the next stage.
However, the drama didn’t end there. After the session, FIA officials confirmed that Hamilton is under investigation for allegedly failing to sufficiently reduce his speed under yellow flag conditions — a serious infraction under Formula 1 regulations. The yellow flags indicate potential danger on track, requiring all drivers to slow down and demonstrate that they have done so by aborting their flying lap. Failing to comply can result in grid penalties or even disqualification from the session, depending on the severity of the breach.
The situation has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike. Many point out that Hamilton appeared to be caught out by the timing of the incident rather than showing negligence. The moment Leclerc spun, several drivers were already mid-lap, and with the yellows being thrown late, it’s unclear whether Hamilton had enough time to react before crossing the affected sector. Still, the FIA takes such incidents seriously, especially after past controversies involving yellow flag violations.
If found guilty, Hamilton could face a grid penalty for the sprint race or even for Sunday’s Grand Prix, depending on how the stewards interpret the data. The Mercedes team, already struggling with pace this season, will be hoping for leniency, especially since the circumstances were largely out of their control.
This investigation adds yet another layer of tension to an already unpredictable Brazilian Grand Prix weekend. Interlagos is known for its surprises — from unpredictable weather to high-stakes qualifying drama — and Hamilton’s situation only amplifies the anticipation heading into race day. Fans now wait anxiously for the FIA’s decision, which could significantly alter the dynamics of both the sprint and the main race.
One thing is certain: the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend has once again delivered the kind of off-track intrigue that Formula 1 fans have come to expect — and all eyes will now be on Hamilton and the FIA as the story unfolds.
