Doc 41 - Infringement - Car 10 - Released in an unsafe condition
Infringements/Decisions
2026 Australian Grand Prix - Stewards Decision
From: The Stewards
To: The Team Manager, BWT Alpine F1 Team
Document: 41
Date: 07 March 2026
Time: 19:18
Incident Details
- Driver: 10 - Pierre Gasly
- Competitor: BWT Alpine F1 Team
- Time: 16:44
- Session: Qualifying
- Fact: Car 10 was released from its garage in an unsafe condition.
- Infringement: Breach of Article B1.6.2 b) i) of the FIA F1 Regulations.
Decision
The Competitor (BWT Alpine F1 Team) is fined €5,000.
Reason
The Stewards reviewed video evidence and heard from the team representative.
- The Event: As the car exited the garage during Qualifying, a component from the left-front wheel assembly detached and rolled through the fast lane of the pit lane.
- Team Admission: The team representative acknowledged that a mechanic failed to correctly secure the component.
- Mitigating Factors: The team cited logistical challenges (delayed arrival of parts in Melbourne) which disrupted preparation procedures.
- Conclusion: While acknowledging the logistics issues, the Stewards emphasized that the Competitor is responsible for ensuring the car is released safely. Based on previous precedents for similar qualifying incidents, a €5,000 fine was imposed.
Stewards:
- Nish Shetty
- Mathieu Remmerie
- Pedro Lamy
- Matthew Selley