Both Williams drivers have been disqualified from the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix qualifying session following post-session scrutineering checks.
Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz qualified in 12th and 13th for the race on Sunday. However, as the session ended, both Williams cars were noted for a technical infringement.
It was focused on the rear wing and its adjustable positions. Both cars were found to be over the 85mm limit on both sides of the upper rear wing area.
The FIA released a statement on the investigation which explained: “The uppermost rear wing element adjustable positions were checked on car numbers 23 and 55.
“Both cars exceeded the maximum limit of 85 mm on both sides of the rear wing outer area. “As this is not in compliance with TR Article 3.10.10 g. I am referring this matter to the stewards for their confirmation.”
Both drivers were summoned to the stewards, and were subsequently disqualified from the qualifying session.
As both Sainz and Albon have set sufficient times in practice, Williams has been granted permission for both men to start the race, albeit from the back row.
In a statement, Team Principal James Vowles said: “This is bitterly disappointing for the team and we are urgently investigating how this happened.
“At no point were we seeking a performance advantage and the rear wings had passed our own checks earlier in the day.
“But there is only one measurement that matters and we fully accept the FIA ruling. We have a car capable of scoring points here this weekend and will do everything we can to fight from the back of the grid tomorrow, and will immediately review our processes to make sure this doesn’t happen again.”
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