Hamilton was in front of his teammate Russell as they navigated the renowned Eau Rouge-Raidillon climb. However, the seven-time world champion seemed slightly slower and deviated from the ideal racing line while going through the left-right section.
Hamilton veered off the track near the hill’s summit, smoothly gliding over the marked area before reentering slightly ahead of Russell, who eased off the accelerator in reaction.
Hamilton became the subject of an investigation, consequently, both drivers have been called upon to appear before the race stewards.
Specifically, this is in relation to an alleged breach of Appendix L of the 203 FIA International Sporting Code.
The clause in question reads: “Drivers must use the track at all times and may not leave the track without a justifiable reason.
To clarify, the white lines that mark the boundaries of the track are included as part of the track, whereas the kerbs are not.
George Russell, Mercedes F1 W14
Photo by: Sam Bloxham / Motorsport Images
If a car exits the track for any reason, the driver is allowed to return. Nevertheless, this can only occur when it is safe and without obtaining any permanent benefit.
If the car is not touching any part of the track, the driver will be considered to have exited the track.
If a driver engages in any action that causes debris to be brought onto the track, they may be reported to the Stewards.
Hamilton finished the qualifying shootout for the Sunday race in fourth place. However, due to a five-place grid penalty for Max Verstappen, he will start the GP from third position. Verstappen was the fastest, surpassing Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc by 0.82 seconds. Russell, on the other hand, achieved the eighth quickest time in Q3.
During Q2 of the Spanish GP earlier this season, the Mercedes pair encountered a minor incident. Hamilton attempted to overtake Russell on the main straight, but the #63 car veered towards the side of the track.
The W14s had a small collision causing slight damage to the bodywork, while Hamilton drove onto the grass.
Russell and his team received a formal warning due to their “unusually altered course”.
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