Suzuka, Japan – Carlos Sainz, the Williams driver, has been given a three-place grid penalty for obstructing Lewis Hamilton during the qualifying session for the Japanese Grand Prix. As a result, he will now start the race from 15th position.
Sainz, who initially qualified in 12th place, impeded Hamilton as the Mercedes driver approached Turn 1 in Q2. This incident forced Hamilton to run wide over the kerb and off the track.
At the time of the incident, Hamilton was beginning a fast lap, while Sainz was on a cool-down lap.
Sainz later explained that he was unaware of Hamilton`s approach.
According to the FIA`s decision, Sainz stated that he received no warning from his team regarding Hamilton`s approach on a fast lap.
Sainz claimed he was completely surprised and, due to Hamilton`s speed and the angle of his car, he could not see Hamilton in his mirrors.
However, the FIA noted that the team had sufficient warning that Hamilton was starting a fast lap while Sainz was on a cool-down lap. They also pointed out that over eight seconds passed between the moment it became clear Hamilton was not entering the pits and would begin a fast lap, and when Sainz could have taken action if he had been alerted by his team.
The FIA stated that the standard penalty for this type of offense during qualifying, whether the fault lies with the driver or the team, is a three-place grid penalty. Therefore, the stewards determined that this standard penalty should be applied.
As a consequence of Sainz`s penalty, Fernando Alonso, Liam Lawson, and Yuki Tsunoda will each move up one position on the starting grid.
Alex Albon, Sainz`s Williams teammate, qualified ninth, ahead of Hamilton.
Max Verstappen secured pole position, leading the McLarens of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
Rupert Caldwell 
Tristan Blackwood