Lewis Hamilton will start the Azerbaijan Grand Prix from the pit lane as Mercedes have chosen to replace his power unit ahead of today’s race.
The Mercedes driver was originally due to start today’s race from seventh place. His pit lane start promotes Fernando Alonso to seventh place and Franco Colapinto will now make his second grand prix start from the fourth row.
Lando Norris, who originally qualified 17th after his elimination during Q1, will now start 15th, having also gained a position from Pierre Gasly’s disqualification.
Mercedes confirmed it had taken the decision to replace Hamilton’s power unit due to the failure he suffered at the Australian Grand Prix in March. Replacing the power unit now should mean he does not have to take a further penalty before the end of the season.
Hamilton will have Esteban Ocon for company at the pit exit when the race begins. Alpine confirmed they have taken his car off the grid in order to make set-up changes to it. Ocon was unhappy with the handling of his car after missing much of the first and third practice sessions due to power unit problems, and crashed in Q1. It is the second year in a row Ocon will start this race from the pits.
Yesterday Norris predicted he would find it difficult to make progress through the field despite the long straights at Baku City Circuit. However one DRS zone has been extended since last year and Mercedes’ decision to start Hamilton from the pits indicates they are confident about his chances of making progress in the race. His car was fourth-quickest through the speed trap in qualifying yesterday, while team mate George Russell was second-fastest, and a fresh engine should further aid his cause.
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2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix
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