What\u2019s more, the Kiwi has also been referred to the race stewards, after stopping on track without a functional clutch disengagement system (CDS).<\/p>\n
The clutch disengagement system is integral to the safe removal of a car by marshals. It allows a crashed or stopped car to have its clutch disengaged by stewards without the engine running.<\/p>\n
If found to be in breach of the FIA\u2019s Article C9.3, Lawson could be handed a punishment by the stewards to carry into sprint qualifying, if not the race itself.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen car 30 stopped on the track during FP1, the marshals pressed the CDS button at 12:41,\u201d wrote FIA technical delegate Jo Bauer.<\/p>\n
\u201cBut it turned out that the CDS was not working as required by the F1 Regulations, Article C9.3. I am referring this matter to the Stewards for their consideration.\u201d<\/p>\n
Article C9.3 of the technical regulations states: \u201cAll cars must be fitted with a means of disengaging the clutch for a minimum of fifteen minutes in the event of the car coming to rest with the engine stopped. <\/p>\n
\u201cThis system must be in working order throughout the Competition even if the main hydraulic, pneumatic or electrical systems on the car have failed. <\/p>\n
\u201cThis system must also shut down the ERS, as required by article C5.17.1. In order that the driver or a marshal may activate the system in less than five seconds, the button which operates it must:<\/p>\n
\u201ca. Face upwards and be recessed into the top of the Survival Cell and be positioned according to Drawing 10 of Appendix C3.<\/p>\n
\u201cb. Be designed in order that a marshal is unable to accidentally re\u2212engage the Clutch.<\/p>\n
\u201cc. Be marked according to Drawing 10 of Appendix C3.\u201d<\/p>\n
Sprint qualifying gets underway at 8:30am (NZT). <\/p>\n