George Russell will start Sunday’s Singapore Grand Prix from the pit lane after Mercedes were penalised for replacing his engine after qualifying.
Russell was only 11th fastest during qualifying on Saturday at the Marina Bay circuit, prompting Mercedes to replace his entire power unit.
Stream the FORMULA 1 SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX 2022™ LIVE and ad-break free Sunday 11pm AEST on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
“All the power unit components for George Russell have been replaced without the approval of the FIA technical delegate,” said a statement from stewards.
“Therefore car number 63 should now be required to start the race from the pit lane.” Britain’s Russell has finished in the top five for all but one of the races he has completed in his debut season for Mercedes.
He will face an almost impossible task to keep up that record on a street circuit under the lights that affords few overtaking opportunities.
Max Verstappen, meanwhile, was fuming after he was forced to abandon his final flying lap in qualifying and return to the pits because his Red Bull was low on fuel.
The Dutchman was fuming on team radio and will have to pull out something special to challenge Charles Leclerc, who will start from pole position.
Sergio Perez starts in P2, with Lewis Hamilton and Carlos Sainz on the second row. Australia’s Daniel Ricciardo will start 16th after struggling again in qualifying.
The race was scheduled to get underway at 11pm (AEDT) but the start has been delayed by 30 minutes because of wet weather.
If the blog doesn’t appear click here
