Azerbaijan GP organisation explains "undetectable problem" with drain hole

After a loose drain cover destroyed George Russell's chassis during Free Practice 1 in Azerbaijan, the organisation has come out to explain the issue, as they claim it was an "undetectable problem".

FP1 came to a quick end after Russell ran over the drain cover, which was made loose after Charles Leclerc had already driven over it with one wheel without realising. Russell's chassis was ruined by the incident and needed replacing, which will mean he cannot participate in Free Practice 2 because of regulations.

"Although all safety and regulatory checks had been put in place beforehand, the resulting issue was caused due an undetectable problem beneath the fitting that only became apparent this afternoon," the organisation stated on their social media.

"We have coordinated with FIA to secure a replacement cover and to check all other manholes on the circuit before racing can resume. Driver safety is always paramount and our main priority. With over 300 manholes on the circuit, this process will take some time."

There was some more embarrassment following the incident, as the truck that was towing Russell's car back also ran into a bridge, leaking oil on the FW42. Well done Baku!