Kvyat escapes penalty for failed floor test

The stewards have accepted an explanation from the team that Kvyat damaged the car when running over a kerb during the final part of qualifying.

FIA technical delegate Jo Bauer discovered the car did not comply with the regulations regarding vertical front-floor deflection.

After examining video and telemetry evidence, and hearing from a team representative, the stewards have decided to take no further action.

A statement from the stewards read: "The team produced evidence that the car suffered an impact which reduced the downforce and resulted with a slower lap time than in Q2.

"Therefore, whilst technically the car failed to pass the deflection test, the stewards have decided not to impose any penalty.

"However, the team is reminded that further tests will be conducted and that future failure of the test may not result in the same decision.

"The FIA technical team is requested to further study the telemetry produced by the team and provide a report to the stewards if appropriate."

Kvyat qualified ninth for Sunday's race, and will start from eighth on the grid due to Kimi Raikkonen dropping five places after his Ferrari required a new gearbox following final practice.

Prior to the investigation Kvyat conceded he drove hard over a kerb during qualifying.

"I was on for a very good lap, on for P5, but I hit the kerb pretty hard around Turn 14, the swimming pool, and I think something broke," said Kvyat.

"The last three corners I was a passenger, so I lost a lot of time there.

"I had potential, but by the time I got to Q3 I lost concentration and pace.

"People kept improving and we took a step back."