F1 Schedule Details for Azerbaijan GP: Hamilton and Ocon Face Pitlane Challenges
F1 Schedule Highlights: Azerbaijan GP's Pitlane Drama
In a strategic move, Lewis Hamilton will start the 2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix from the pitlane after Mercedes opted to replace crucial components of his power unit. Initially positioned seventh for the race, Hamilton's fifth engine exceeds the allowed allocation, forcing this change.
The decision comes after a challenging period for the team, especially following Hamilton's engine failure in Australia that strained his capacity to complete the season without further penalties. This pitlane start follows a disappointing qualifying round where he couldn't optimize his tires effectively.
Ocon Joins Hamilton in Pitlane
Alpine driver Esteban Ocon also faces a pitlane start, having suffered multiple setbacks throughout the weekend. Ocon's issues include an engine problem that prevented him from participating in FP1 and a crash during qualifying that left him at the back of the grid.
With significant penalties for both drivers, it sets up an intriguing race ahead, especially for title challenger Lando Norris, who benefits from their misfortunes by moving up the grid.
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