Nico Hulkenberg was disqualified from the Bahrain Grand Prix after he was referred to the stewards for excessive skid block wear. The same regulation breach led to Lewis Hamilton’s omission from the classification in Shanghai earlier this season.

The experienced German racer executed a clean race at the Sakhir International Circuit, crossing the line in 13th after dominating rookie team-mate Gabriel Bortoleto throughout the weekend. However, Hulkenberg’s hard work was undone after an issue was flagged by the FIA during post-race inspections in Parc Ferme.

A report from the FIA stated: “The plank assembly of Car 27 was measured and found to be 8.4mm (LHS), 8.5mm (car centerline) and 8.4mm (RHS). This is below the minimum thickness of 9mm specified under Article 3.5.9 e) of the Technical Regulations.

“During the hearing the team representative confirmed that the measurement is correct and that all required procedures were performed correctly. The team also acknowledged that it was a genuine error by the team.

“The Stewards determine that Article 3.5.9 e) of the FIA Formula One Technical Regulations has been breached and therefore the standard penalty of a disqualification needs to be applied for such an infringement.”

While Hulkenberg’s disqualification made no difference to Sauber’s points haul from the Bahrain GP, it is a frustrating end to another difficult weekend for the Hinwil-based squad.