| BREAKING: Lewis Hamilton has been handed a 3-place grid penalty for impeding Max Verstappen in Monaco and will now start P7 for Sunday’s race. 
…….. Read moreBREAKING: Lewis Hamilton Handed Grid Penalty, Drops to P7 for Monaco GP
In a dramatic turn of events ahead of Sunday’s Monaco Grand Prix, seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton has been handed a three-place grid penalty for impeding Max Verstappen during qualifying. The decision comes after the stewards reviewed footage and team radio, concluding that Hamilton failed to adequately move aside for the charging Red Bull driver during a crucial lap.
Hamilton had originally qualified P4, showing promising pace around the tight and twisty streets of Monte Carlo. However, the penalty now drops him to seventh on the grid, significantly compromising his chances of a podium finish in a race where track position is everything.
The incident occurred during Q3, where Verstappen, pushing for a top spot on the grid, encountered a slower-moving Hamilton in the tunnel section. Verstappen was forced to lift, potentially costing him valuable time. Though the Red Bull driver did not suffer major consequences, the stewards deemed Hamilton’s actions as “unnecessary obstruction” and penalized accordingly.
Mercedes have expressed disappointment in the ruling, but team principal Toto Wolff admitted communication between the pit wall and Hamilton could have been clearer. “It was an unfortunate situation,” Wolff said. “There was no intent, but rules are rules.”
Hamilton will now have to fight his way through the midfield pack, a daunting task on a circuit infamous for its lack of overtaking opportunities. Meanwhile, this development could benefit Verstappen and other front-runners looking to capitalize on Hamilton’s misfortune.
Sunday’s race now promises even more intrigue, as Hamilton faces a tough challenge to recover lost ground in one of the most strategic races of the year. All eyes will be on the Brit as he attempts to salvage a strong result from an increasingly uphill battle.