P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Sainz and Hamilton avoid grid drops after Qatar F1 qualifying
Carlos Sainz faced stewards for his alleged erratic driving during Q2, particularly during an incident with Max Verstappen on a cool-down lap. Verstappen complained over the team radio about Sainz’s defending tactics, stating that he almost crashed into him. Sainz argued that he couldn’t afford to be passed by another car to maintain the maximum lap-time requirement. After reviewing evidence, including video footage and team radio, the stewards deemed Sainz’s defense unnecessary and issued him a warning. Sainz will retain his 12th qualifying position. Lewis Hamilton also avoided a grid drop for exceeding the maximum lap-time during in-laps, as the stewards determined he and several others took appropriate action to avoid other cars. Hamilton will start in third place for the Qatar Grand Prix.
Source: Motorsport Week
