Sebastian Vettel has been dealt a major blow after he was stripped of his second-place finish at the Hungarian Grand Prix after race officials were unable to take a 1 litre fuel sample from his car in the aftermath of the race. Regulations state that drivers must be able to provide at least that figure at any point during proceedings, however, Vettel only had 0.3 litres of fuel to his name.
The dramatic swing of events sees Lewis Hamilton elevated to second in the revised standings and Carlos Sainz into third after one of the most dramatic races in recent memory.
It was a tough afternoon for the seven-time world champion, who was taken for medical checks after suffering from fatigue and mild dizziness after finishing on the podium.
He is now eight points clear of Max Verstappen, rather than six following tonight’s developments.
It also means the other drivers in the top 10 are elevated by one place with Kimi Raikkonen of Alfa Romeo moving up into 10th from 11th.
READ MORE: Lewis Hamilton explains ‘crazy’ Mercedes mix up after chaotic Hungarian Grand Prix scenes
An official FIA document read: “The stewards heard from the team representative. After the race it was not possible to take 1.0 litre sample of fuel from car 5.
“The team was given several opportunities to attempt to remove the required mount of fuel from the tank, however it was only possible to pump 0.3 litres out.
“During the hearing in presence of the FIA Technical Delegate and the FIA Technicial Director, the team principal of Aston Martin stated that there must be 1.44 litres left in the tan, but they are not able to get it out.
“This figure is calculated using the FFM or injector model.
“Given the situation, car No.5 is not in compliance wit the requirements of Art 6.6 FIA Technical Regulations.
“According to Art 6.6.2 competitors must ensure that a 1.0 litre sample of fuel may be taken from the car at any time.
“The procedure was followed however the 1.0 litre sample of fuel was unable to be taken.
“Stewards determine to apply the standard penalty for technical infringements. Therefore they took into account that is shall be no defence to claim that no performance advantage was obtained.
“Competitors are reminded that they have the right to appeal certain decisions of the Steward in accordance with Article 15 of the FIA International Sporting Code and Article §0.§.§ of the FA Judicial and Disciplinary Rules within the applicable time limits.”
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