Hamilton at risk of penalty after topping qualifying in Brazil
Lewis Hamilton set the fastest time in qualifying ahead of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, but could lose the top spot with a technical investigation underway.
Lewis Hamilton set the fastest lap in qualifying for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. (Sebastian Kawka)
Hamilton set the pace early in the Friday qualifying session, which determines the starting order for Saturday's Sprint.
Championship rival Max Verstappen was able to improve throughout the three sessions to set the second fastest time after catching Valtteri Bottas.
Hamilton, however, was unbeatable, setting a lap time of 1:07.934, almost half a second quicker than Verstappen.
"Today was a really good qualifying session," said Hamilton.
"I’m super happy with it."
"We’ve got the penalty but we’ll give it everything we’ve got."
"It feels crazy, because it’s been a while, so it feels like the first."
Lewis Hamilton already faces a five-place grid drop for an engine change. (Steve Etherington)
Hamilton is set to start Saturday's Sprint from the front but will take a five-place engine penalty in Sunday's Grand Prix.
"It’s not easy to follow, but I guess Max is starting on pole now so it’s going to be very hard to catch him but I’ll do my best to try and go through the field."
"I don’t know what tomorrow will hold."
Hamilton's engine penalty could be compounded, with a late technical investigation launched by FIA technical delegate Jo Bauer.
The Mercedes driver has been referred to the stewards for an issue with his Drag Reduction System.
"The uppermost rear wing element adjustable positions were checked on car number 44 for compliance with Article 3.6.3 of the 2021 Formula One Technical Regulations," read the technical report.
"The requirement for the minimum distance was fulfilled."
"But the requirement for the maximum of 85mm, when the DRS system is deployed and tested in accordance with TD/011-19, were not fulfilled."
A decision will be made on Saturday morning, according to a FIA spokesperson.
"The Stewards have adjourned the hearing relating to Document 18 of the 2021 FIA Formula 1 São Paulo Grand Prix as they await further evidence that will not be available until the morning.”
