Sergio Perez has been handed a three-place grid penalty for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, announced by the race stewards following qualifying.
The Mexican driver for Cadillac was penalized for impeding Oscar Piastri, a McLaren driver, while Piastri was on a flying lap during qualifying. The incident took place at turns 18, 19, and 20 during a preparation lap where Perez was warming his tires by weaving.
The stewards noted that Perez received two warnings about Piastri’s approach but failed to comply with traffic management instructions. Piastri confirmed he had to lift off due to Perez, although he did not believe he lost significant time.
After reviewing evidence and testimonies, the stewards judged the incident was not dangerous but that the obstruction experienced by Piastri warranted the penalty.
This penalty will not change Perez’s final grid position of 20th, as other drivers such as Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll will receive heavier penalties for engine changes.
