Infringement Car 27 Failure To Follow Race Directors Instructions
Qatar Grand Prix · 2025 · 28 November 2025 · Doc 18
- Driver
- Nico Hulkenberg
- Team
- Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber
- Session
- Sprint Qualifying
2025 QATAR GRAND PRIX
28 - 30 November 2025
From The Stewards
To The Team Manager,
Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber Document 18 Date 28 November 2025 Time 22:19
The Stewards, having received a report from the Race Director, summoned (document 14) and heard from the driver and team representative, have considered the following matter and determine the following:
No / Driver 27 - Nico Hulkenberg Competitor Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber Time 20:57 Session Sprint Qualifying Fact The driver of Car 27 Failed to follow the Race Director's instructions Infringement Breach of Article 33.4 of the FIA Formula One Sporting Regulations, Breach of Article 12.2.1 i) of the International Sporting Code and non-compliance with Race Director's Event Notes (item 1, document 5). Decision No penalty is applied. Reason The Stewards heard from the driver of Car 27 (Nico Hulkenberg), team representative and reviewed positioning/marshalling system data, video, timing, team radio and in-car video evidence. The driver left the pit exit with an appropriate gap to the car in front (PIA) however prior to him joining the track another car (ALO) came down the straight and overtook PIA, causing PIA to slow down, significantly reducing the gap that existed back to Car 27. The driver of Car 27 then noting that there was no car approaching him, slowed to re-create the original gap with PIA. The driver did not impede any other driver, and did not drive in an unsafe manner, hence no penalty is imposed. Competitors are reminded that they have the right to appeal certain decisions of the Stewards, in accordance with Article 15 of the FIA International Sporting Code and Chapter 4 of the FIA Judicial and Disciplinary Rules, within the applicable time limits.
Decisions of the Stewards are taken independently of the FIA and are based solely on the relevant regulations, guidelines and evidence presented.