Sauber drivers Sergio Perez and Kamui Kobayashi have been disqualified from the Australian Grand Prix for technical infringements.
The pair finished a fine seventh and eighth respectively in the Albert Park race – netting Perez points on his debut Formula One appearance.
According to the post-race stewards report, the Saubers failed to comply with sections 3.10.1 and 3.10.2 of the regulations, which govern the rear wing layout and dimensions.
Sauber will appeal the decision to disqualify both of its cars from the race, with technical director James Key arguing that no advantage was gained from contravening the regulations.
“This is a very surprising and disappointing result,” said Key.
“It appears that there is a question over the top surface of the uppermost rear wing element, this area is not the working surface of the component and therefore relatively unimportant to its function.
“Certainly this has not led to any performance advantage.
“We are checking the design of the parts now to better understand the situation and we intend to appeal the decision made by the stewards.”
The amended results see Felipe Massa sit seventh, with Sebastien Buemi eighth, and the two Force Indias of Adrian Sutil and rookie Paul di Resta elevated into the points.
CLICK HERE for Speedcafe.com's race report