FIA confirm MAJOR driver penalty for Azerbaijan Grand Prix

The glorious skyline of Baku is covered with an FIA flag — Photo: © IMAGO

Azerbaijan Grand Prix

FIA confirm MAJOR driver penalty for Azerbaijan GP

The FIA have confirmed which F1 star will start from the back of the grid

Jay Winter

Sunday 15 September 2024 08:27

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Zhou Guanyu will start from the back of the grid for Sunday’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix after receiving a significant penalty for exceeding power unit element limits.

The FIA confirmed the decision after the Sauber team made crucial changes to Zhou’s car during Friday’s practice sessions, severely impacting his starting position for the race.

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The penalty was triggered when Sauber mechanics fitted a third Energy Store (ES) and third Control Electronics (CE) to Zhou’s car, exceeding the season limit of two elements for each component.

This breach results in a 10-place grid penalty per additional element. With 20 grid places deducted in total, Zhou’s penalty exceeds the 15-place threshold, which automatically relegates him to the back of the grid under the FIA’s Sporting Regulations.

Zhou Guanyu will start at the back of the grid on Sunday

Sauber opted to change their driver's power unit in baku

Baku power unit breach

This penalty adds to what has already been a difficult weekend for the Sauber team, who have struggled for performance on the Baku street circuit.

The Baku track’s tight corners and long straights have further exposed Sauber’s weaknesses, making Zhou’s race even more challenging as he faces starting from the back row – although not from 20th, with Pierre Gasly disqualified after the session for a fuel flow issue.

For Zhou Guanyu, this penalty is yet another setback in a tough start to the season. Starting from the back of the grid on a circuit known for its high-speed demands and technical difficulties will be a formidable challenge.

With Sauber yet to score points in 2024, Zhou will need a standout performance on Sunday to make any significant progress in what is shaping up to be a testing race for the team.