Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton was given a reprimand for impeding Haas driver Nikita Mazepin during the FP3 in Jeddah Corniche Circuit. During the final moments of FP3, confusion usurped when Hamilton was on his cooling lap unaware of the fact that Mazepin behind him was on a flyer. Following that, around the blind turn 8, the Russian had to take avoiding action to save the wreckage.

However, Mazepin does not want Lewis to be penalized for the same. Instead, the Russian backed the Stewards’ decision of not giving him a grid penalty. Notably, after an intense qualifying session, Mercedes have locked up a front-row start for the main race, and any penalty for pole-sitter Lewis Hamilton would have tanked his chances of winning this crucial race.

Lewis Hamilton was upset about the incident

The Stewards gave the Briton his second reprimand for the season. Apart from that, Silver Arrows have been fined  €25,000, primarily attributed to “failure of communication from the team”. Nevertheless, the driver dodged any grid penalty and that is good news for the Brackley outfit. However, Nikita Mazepin looked considerate towards the British legend. “I really like Lewis and wish him the best for his title fight,” said the Haas driver.

“I don’t want him to be punished for something that happened with me. He was already very upset about what happened and we texted about it,” he added

This is not a precedent

As per the authorities, there was a communication barrier between the team and the driver which can prove fatal in such circuits. However, the FIA statement says that this cannot be used as a precedent in other circuits.

“Although it is the driver’s ultimate responsibility to avoid impeding, for this circuit the driver must depend upon the Team to communicate efficiently. This did not happen in this case and accordingly, the penalty for the Competitor is imposed.” read the FIA stewards’ statement as reported by Motorsport.

“The Stewards take this opportunity to emphasize that due to the nature of this circuit it is essential that teams communicate effectively and proactively with their drivers. This is not to be taken as a precedent for other circuits.”

Nevertheless, the grid is set for the main race in the inaugural Jeddah GP. Max Verstappen will be charging in from third place meanwhile Lewis will look to annihilate the 8-point lead. It will be interesting to see if the Dutchman can find his way back to the top in Jeddah. Needless to say, the Brackley team duo won’t make it any easier for him. Tell us your predictions about the upcoming race.

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