First FIA decision lands after post-qualifying investigation at Sepang

Stroll was placed under investigation for exceeding the maximum permitted lap time between the second and first Safety Car lines during qualifying. The Canadian took longer than the prescribed 1:59.0 limit between SC2 and SC1 on one of his out-laps, triggering a post-session investigation by the stewards.

The driver and the team were also given the opportunity to explain why the Canadian failed to stay within the maximum permitted time on his out-lap.

The team pointed towards the operating requirements of the power unit, which force Stroll to complete a particular sequence of procedures while preparing for a flying lap. Combining those tasks with the need to hit the prescribed SC2-SC1 time proved especially demanding at Sepang, according to the explanation provided to the officials.

That argument was not enough to clear Stroll of the infringement. The stewards stressed that responsibility for ensuring the car complies with the regulations remains with both the driver and the team, regardless of the technical procedures required.

Crucially, Stroll had managed to remain within the limit on another out-lap during the same session under similar operating requirements, demonstrating that respecting the rule was achievable.

With the breach therefore confirmed, the stewards turned their attention to the appropriate sanction. After considering the circumstances surrounding the incident, they opted against imposing a penalty that would alter Stroll's qualifying result and instead issued the Aston Martin driver with a warning.

Aston Martin enjoyed one of its strongest qualifying sessions of the season, with both drivers progressing to Q2 for the first time this year. Stroll will start tomorrow's race from 14th on the grid, while Alonso secured 12th place.