Source – GBblog.com
Mercedes installed a new engine before of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, therefore Lewis Hamilton will begin the race from the pits.
Lewis Hamilton is set to begin the Azerbaijan Grand Prix from the pit lane after a critical engine change. The seven-time world champion, who originally qualified in seventh position during Saturday’s session, has been handed a significant grid penalty by the FIA after Mercedes opted for a fifth engine of the season, surpassing the allocated four. Alongside the engine swap, Mercedes has made modifications to the suspension of Hamilton’s car, which further solidifies his pit lane start. Joining him will be Alpine’s Esteban Ocon, who has also received a new engine, setting up a high-stakes start from the back for both drivers.
The penalty marks a tough setback for Hamilton, who had hoped to convert his qualifying position into a competitive race day result, especially as Mercedes continues to push for momentum in a season where the Silver Arrows have faced various challenges. Starting from the pit lane, however, will be a steep mountain to climb for the Briton, who now must focus on a damage-limitation strategy while navigating the tricky Baku street circuit.
This latest development offers an unexpected boost for McLaren’s Lando Norris. Initially qualifying in 17th after a disappointing session that saw him struggle with yellow flags at the exit of the final turn, Norris was eliminated in the first part of qualifying. However, with Hamilton’s penalty in effect, Norris moves up to 15th on the grid. The young British driver will be eager to take advantage of this reshuffling to score valuable points and keep himself in the title conversation, especially as he continues his pursuit of Max Verstappen. Norris trails the Dutchman by 62 points in the championship standings but has been making strides recently, closing the gap by 16 points in the last two races. Baku presents another opportunity for Norris to apply pressure on Verstappen and narrow the deficit further.
Adding to the grid drama is Pierre Gasly’s disqualification from qualifying, which handed Norris an additional bump up the starting order. Gasly’s car was found to be in breach of FIA technical regulations, forcing the French driver to the back of the pack. Gasly’s exclusion underscores the fine margins at play in Formula 1, where even the slightest technical infraction can have significant consequences.
Meanwhile, Verstappen, the three-time world champion and current leader of the drivers’ standings, had a slightly underwhelming qualifying session, securing sixth position on the grid. It’s a far cry from the dominant form he has showcased for much of the season, and the Baku GP could present a rare moment of vulnerability for the Red Bull star. With Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc clinching pole position, Verstappen faces a fight to hold his lead in the championship. Leclerc, while 86 points adrift of Verstappen, is still a factor in the title race and will be looking to convert his strong starting position into maximum points.
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix now holds immense potential for unpredictability. The long straights and tight corners of the Baku City Circuit are notorious for shaking up the order, and Hamilton’s demotion to the pit lane only adds to the intrigue. Mercedes will be counting on their veteran driver’s experience to navigate the chaos of the race and salvage a respectable result. For Norris, it’s an unexpected opportunity to capitalize on his rivals’ misfortunes and mount a charge up the grid.
As the drivers prepare for the Baku showdown, the evolving grid dynamics set the stage for an exciting race, with the potential for drama at every corner. Whether it’s Hamilton’s pit lane recovery, Norris’ quest for damage control, or Verstappen’s championship defense against Leclerc, this race could have far-reaching implications for the 2024 title battle. The streets of Baku, known for their unpredictability, may once again play host to a race filled with surprises, as the chase for championship glory intensifies.
