Williams releases statement after shocking disqualification of Alex Albon

Williams releases statement after shocking disqualification of Alex Albon

The Williams Formula 1 team has publicly responded to the disqualification of its driver Alex Albon from qualifying for the Dutch GP.

The Grove-based company shared the following on social media:

“Unfortunately, Alex was disqualified from qualifying today as his underbody was outside the limits set by the FIA. We are incredibly disappointed with this result and will conduct a thorough investigation and provide an update shortly.”

During the session, Albon managed to set the eighth fastest time. However, the technical inspection after qualifying revealed deviations from the strict technical standards of Formula 1, in particular the dimensions of the car’s floor as defined in Article 3.5.1 a) of the FIA ​​Formula 1 Technical Regulations.

The FIA ​​stewards stated in the official letter:

“The Stewards heard the statements of the team representative of Car 23 (Alexander Albon), the FIA ​​Technical Delegate, the FIA ​​Technical Scrutineer who carried out the measurement of the car and the FIA ​​Single-Seater Director.

“It was found that the bottom body of car 23 was outside the regulatory volume specified in Article 3.5.1 a) of the FIA ​​Formula 1 Technical Regulations.

“The team did not contest the calibration of the FIA ​​measurement system and the measurement of the car, but stated that its own measurements had led to different results.”

“The Race Direction concludes that the result of the measurement carried out with the FIA ​​system in the Parc Fermé is the relevant one and that the proper procedure prescribed in the regulations was followed. Therefore, the standard penalty for such an infringement is imposed.”

In addition to this setback, Williams also faced other challenges during the Dutch GP weekend. Alex Albon’s teammate Logan Sargeant was involved in an accident during the third free practice session (FP3), which left his car significantly damaged and prevented him from taking part in qualifying. Despite this, the race stewards confirmed Sargeant’s eligibility for the Grand Prix.

While the team faces these challenges, the motorsport community and fans await further updates with great interest.

Starting grid for the 2024 Dutch GP
(After application of penalties)

1. Lando Norris
2. Max Verstappen
3. Oscar Piastri
4. George Russell
5. Sergio Perez
6. Charles Leclerc
7. Fernando Alonso
8. Lance Stroll
9. Pierre Gasly
10. Carlos Sainz
11. Yuki Tsunoda
12. Nico Hulkenberg
13. Kevin Magnussen
14. Lewis Hamilton
15. Daniel Ricciardo
16. Esteban Ocon
17. Valtteri Bottas
18. Zhou Guanyu
19. Logan Sargeant – No Time
20. Alex Albon – Disqualified

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