Hamilton’s Spanish ups and downs

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Published time: May 12, 2012 22:20
Edited time: May 13, 2012 02:20

McLaren driver Lewis Hamilton was the fastest at the Spanish Grand Prix qualifier but, will have to start Sunday’s race from the last spot at the starting grid after breaking Formula One rules.

­Hamilton had an exceptionally strong flying lap to beat the other drivers by more than half a second, for his third pole position of the season and 22nd of his career.

But the Briton was forced to stop his car after crossing the line, with McLaren contending their driver had insufficient fuel to return to the pits.

The sport's governing body ruled Hamilton violated rules, and he was “excluded” from qualifying results. Hamilton will now start from last place instead.

Hamilton's penalty gave Pastor Maldonado of Williams the first place on the starting grid and the first career pole.