After Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz secured 12th and 13th on the grid respectively, routine post-qualifying checks by the FIA revealed that the DRS slot gap on both FW47 machines exceeded the maximum permitted limit.

According to Article 3.10.10g of Formula 1’s Technical Regulations, the DRS flap must not open more than 85mm in its deployed state. FIA Technical Delegate Jo Bauer confirmed that both cars were found to have surpassed this limit on the outer edges of their rear wings, rendering them non-compliant.

Williams explained that its own pre-session measurements showed the components to be within the legal tolerance, suggesting a possible discrepancy between its internal measuring equipment and that used by the FIA. However, the team did not contest the governing body’s procedure or the accuracy of its findings.

Instead, Williams accepted responsibility and acknowledged that the rear wings fitted to both cars did not comply with the regulations. As a result, the FIA stewards applied the standard penalty for a technical infringement, which is a complete disqualification from the qualifying results.

Though both drivers are still permitted to take part in the Grand Prix, they will start from the back of the grid. In a statement following the ruling, Williams Team Principal James Vowles expressed deep disappointment over the outcome, emphasising that the team had not sought any performance advantage.

“This is bitterly disappointing for the team and we are urgently investigating how this happened,” said Vowles. “At no point were we seeking a performance advantage and the rear wings had passed our own checks earlier in the day, but these is only one measurement that matters and we fully accept the FIA ruling.”