Sebastian Vettel has been disqualified from the results of the Hungarian Grand Prix after Aston Martin were unable to provide the required fuel sample specified in the Formula 1 technical regulations.
Following a race-long battle with eventual race winner Esteban Ocon, the four-time World Champion finished in second place but pulled to the side of the track at Turn 12 during the slow down lap.
After going through the technical checks after the race, Vettel’s AMR21 was only able to provide 0.3 litres of fuel instead of the one-litre sample required by Article 6.6.2 of the Formula 1 Technical Regulations.
“After the race it was not possible to take a 1.0 litre sample of fuel from car 5,” confirmed an FIA statement. “The team was given several opportunities to attempt to remove the required amount of fuel from the tank, however it was only possible to pump 0.3 litres out.
“During the hearing in presence of the FIA Technical Delegate and the FIA Technical Director the team principal of Aston Martin stated that there must be 1,44 litres left in the tank, but they are not able to get it out. This figure is calculated using the FFM or injector model. Given this situation, car No. 5 is not in compliance with the requirements of Art. 6.6 FIA Technical Regulations. According to Art. 6.6.2 competitors must ensure that a 1.0 litre sample of fuel may be taken from the car at any time.
“The procedure was followed however the 1.0 litre sample of fuel was unable to be taken. The Stewards determine to apply the standard penalty for technical infringements. Therefore they took into account, that it shall be no defence to claim that no performance advantage was obtained.”
As a result of Vettel’s disqualification, Lewis Hamilton has been elevated to second place while Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz inherits the final spot on the podium.
The remaining drivers move up a spot, with Kimi Raikkonen inheriting the final point for Alfa Romeo.
Vettel’s exclusion affects the Drivers’ Standings, with Hamilton gaining an extra three points, and Max Verstappen one, meaning the Briton now heads the championship by eight points.
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