Sergio Perez has been hit with a grid penalty for the F1 Australian Grand Prix.
The Mexican Red Bull driver was third fastest in qualifying but got into hot water for allegedly blocking Nico Hulkenberg during the session. After looking at the evidence, the stewards decided Perez was in the wrong and gave him a grid penalty. This means he’ll start Sunday’s race in sixth place.
The official decision said: “Hulkenberg was on a fast lap when he approached turn 13. Perez, who was on an out lap was at the apex of the turn and Hulkenberg had to leave the racing line to drive around him. Hulkenberg was forced to lift the throttle early and brake early for that corner.” Listening to the audio from Perez’s car, the stewards noticed that his team was more focused on the car in front of Perez that had just slowed down.
