Max Verstappen will start Sunday’s Austrian Grand Prix from pole position after being cleared of allegedly impeding Haas’ Kevin Magnussen.
Verstappen grabbed pole position but was summoned to the stewards for allegedly getting in Magnussen’s way on the exit of Turn 1 during Q1.
Stewards investigated the incident but ultimately deemed that no further action was necessary.
“The driver of Car 1 [Verstappen] stated that he saw a car approaching after he crossed the line at the end of his push lap and moved to the left of the track after the exit of Turn 1,” read the report.
“The driver of Car 20 [Magnussen] stated that he had to move to the right to avoid Car 1 and hence lost time on his fast lap.
“The Stewards determined from the video (and audio) evidence that Car 20 had clipped the kerb in Turn 1 and that this subsequently caused a slight change in acceleration which in turn resulted in a slightly slower time on the next mini sectors.
“The Stewards further determined that Car 20 did not have to take significant evasive action.”
It means Verstappen will take up top spot on the grid for the fourth successive race, ahead of Ferrari pair Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz.
Magnussen will start the grand prix from 19th place for Haas.
Discussion about this post