In a dramatic turn of events at the Dutch Grand Prix, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari's Charles Leclerc were sensationally disqualified from the Zandvoort race results. The shock decision came after post-race scrutineering found both cars in breach of Formula 1's stringent technical regulations.
The crux of the issue centred on the mandatory wooden floor planks, which were found to have worn down beyond the legal 1mm limit. This critical measurement is designed to ensure cars maintain a legal ride height throughout the gruelling race distance.
Technical Breach Overshadows On-Track Battles
Despite a stellar drive that saw him finish sixth, Hamilton's efforts were instantly nullified. The Mercedes star, along with Leclerc who crossed the line in fifth, saw their hard-earned points completely wiped from the championship tally.
The FIA's technical delegation reported excessive wear on the skids located beneath both cars. This violation of Article 3.5.9(e) of the F1 Technical Regulations left race stewards with no alternative but to issue the harsh penalties.
Team Reactions and Championship Implications
Mercedes and Ferrari teams offered no formal appeals against the decisions, acknowledging the factual nature of the measurements. The disqualification promotes McLaren's Lando Norris to fourth position while catapulting Alpine's Pierre Gasly into a points-paying position.
The dramatic ruling significantly reshapes the championship landscape, dealing a heavy blow to both constructors' and drivers' standings. Hamilton's loss of six points and Leclerc's loss of eight prove particularly costly in the tightly contested midfield battle.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of Formula 1's relentless pursuit of technical perfection, where even millimetre measurements can separate triumph from disaster.
