LEWIS Hamilton and Charles Leclerc have both been disqualified from the US GP after making technical infringements.
After the chequered flag, the FIA inspected the wear of the planks on both cars (as well as Max Verstappen’s and Lando Norris’) and discovered that Hamilton and Leclerc’s had worn too thin had broken the regulations.
Although, after his disqualification the Brit suggested there were still positives to take away.
He said: “It is of course disappointing to be disqualified post-race, but that doesn’t take away from the progress we’ve made this weekend”
This was then echoed by Mercedes team principal Toto Wolf, who said: “Others got it right where we got it wrong and there’s no wiggle room in the rules.
“We need to take it on the chin, do the learning, and come back stronger next weekend.”
The plank – or skid block – was introduced into the regulations in 1994 to make sure that the cars did not run too close to the ground.
However, by running closer to the track the ground effect cars can generate more downforce, allowing them to run faster.
Before being stripped of his result the seven-time World Champion originally finished in second place, with the Monegasque driver (who started on pole) finishing in sixth.
But their disqualification means Norris’ McLaren has been promoted to second and Carlos Sainz to third.
