Ferrari faces double investigation for Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc: penalty risk – Qatar GP qualifying. Ferrari, Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz facing post-qualifying investigations.

During the qualifying session for the Qatar GP, Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc are under investigation for two separate issues involving the Mercedes drivers: they are at risk of penalties. Specifically, Sainz faces two potential penalties, while Leclerc faces one.

Carlos Sainz and Ferrari are under the FIA’s scrutiny following the Qatar GP qualifying session. The stewards announced two separate investigations involving car number 55 and other grid participants, including Leclerc, Hamilton, and Russell.

Unsafe release for Carlos Sainz
The first case concerns an alleged unsafe release during a hectic pit stop phase. Sainz, as he exited his stop, might have obstructed another car, putting safety at risk. The incident will be reviewed by the stewards “after the session,” according to the official statement.

Delta time violation in Q2 for Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz
A second incident involves Charles Leclerc, George Russell, and again Carlos Sainz. The three drivers are accused of not adhering to the race director’s instructions regarding delta time during Q2. This violation could have significant consequences, such as grid penalties or even just a reprimand.

The stewards’ decisions will be crucial in determining the starting grid for the race. Any potential penalty for unsafe release could affect Carlos Sainz, while the delta time violation could impact multiple drivers. Charles Leclerc, George Russell, and Carlos Sainz are all awaiting the verdict.

In a brief statement, the stewards said: “All violations will be carefully evaluated to ensure compliance with the rules and safety on track.”

The outcomes of the FIA investigations will be announced after qualifying. It remains to be seen whether the involved drivers will receive penalties and how these will affect their performance.