In the final stages of last weekend’s Australian Grand Prix, perhaps the biggest question was whether Mercedes driver George Russell would be able to catch Fernando Alonso and take sixth place. Russell was chasing the Aston Martin driver on a new set of tires as the pair entered the Albert Park circuit’s tricky Turns 6-7.
Suddenly, Russell quickly closed the gap to the rear of Alonso’s AMR24 and pulled to the side to avoid a collision. In an instant, Russell was in the gravel, and seconds later his W15 was on its side, right on the racing line.
After the race, both Alonso and Russell were called to meet with race stewards to review the incident. After hearing from both drivers and considering available telemetry data, race officials penalized Alonso for “potentially dangerous” driving, in breach of Article 33.4 of the Sporting Code.
Aston Martin confirmed in a statement from team principal Mike Clack on Tuesday that they would not reconsider the penalty and would accept the decision. Kulak mentioned the penalty in a message to the team’s fans.
“It’s a bitter pill to swallow to receive a 20 second time penalty even though there was no contact with the car behind us, but we have to accept our decision. We made our best case but the new “You cannot claim the right of review without proper evidence,” Clack said.
The statement is You can see it in full herewhich also included an expression of support for Alonso.
“First of all, in the motorsport world, everyone is relieved that George walked away safely after the accident. We want you to know that we have our full support for Fernando. He is the most experienced driver in the world. He has competed in more Grands Prix than anyone and has over 20 years of experience. He is a multiple world champion in multiple categories,” Clack said.
“Fernando had an incredible race and used every tool in his toolbox to finish ahead of George, just as we saw with Sergio in Brazil last year.” [Pérez]. This is the art of motorsport at the highest level. He would never do anything that would put anyone at risk,” Clack added.
At last year’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix, Alonso and Perez engaged in a fierce battle for P3, with Alonso ultimately coming out on top.
F1 will have a week off before the grid reopens ahead of next week’s Japanese Grand Prix.
