Lewis Hamilton received an official warning from the FIA stewards following an impeding incident during the second free practice session of the Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit. His team, Ferrari, was also issued a €10,000 fine for its role in the matter.
The incident occurred on Friday, October 2, 2026, involving Hamilton’s Ferrari and Gabriel Bortoleto’s Audi. Hamilton was travelling at a reduced speed of approximately 80-85 km/h as he approached Turn 9.
Bortoleto, who was on an out lap, approached the same corner at roughly 240 km/h, resulting in a significant closing speed of 155-160 km/h. Hamilton subsequently moved towards the racing line, forcing Bortoleto to take evasive action.
Stewards investigated the situation, noting several mitigating circumstances that influenced their decision to issue a warning rather than a more severe sporting penalty to Hamilton.
Hamilton reported issues with his right-hand mirror, which was damaged and impaired his visibility. This factor was acknowledged by the stewards.
Additionally, Ferrari failed to provide Hamilton with a radio warning regarding Bortoleto’s rapidly approaching car. Bortoleto was also not on a push lap at the time of the incident.
Despite the high closing speed, Bortoleto maintained control of his Audi and avoided a collision. The stewards considered whether the incident constituted dangerous impeding but ultimately decided against it.
The €10,000 fine levied against Ferrari stemmed from the team’s failure to adequately inform their driver. The stewards determined Ferrari was aware of Hamilton’s damaged mirror and should have provided appropriate warnings.
Bortoleto expressed his frustration over team radio following the near-miss, stating, ‘What the fk is this guy doing, man?’
This incident marks another entry in a series of impeding investigations involving Hamilton this season. He received a reprimand at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix for blocking Liam Lawson and a three-place grid penalty at the Hungarian Grand Prix for impeding Oscar Piastri.
Gabriel Bortoleto is currently competing as a driver for Audi in the 2026 Formula 1 season, having joined Sauber in 2025 before its transition to the Audi factory team.
The FIA’s ruling ensures that while Hamilton avoids a grid penalty for the Bahrain Grand Prix, Ferrari incurs a financial sanction for the team’s operational oversight.
