Hamilton Stroll verdict delivered after 'erratic' on-track clash

Lance Stroll has received a reprimand from the stewards , following an "erratic" collision with Lewis Hamilton late in third practice.

The Aston Martin driver was on a hot lap when he rapidly approached a cruising Hamilton on the entry of turn five, with the seven-time world champion having impeded the Canadian driver. 

Hamilton took an extremely wide line to allow Stroll past, whilst also waving to him to apologise. 

However, Stroll seemingly saw red mist, as he forced Hamilton even wider and drove into the side of his W15.

Garage footage of Stroll's car minutes later highlighted some damage to his right sidepod, which will need repairing ahead of qualifying at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. 

The incident was quickly noted and then investigated by the stewards, who deemed that despite having been the driver impeded, Stroll's actions were not satisfactory. 

The stewards' report read: "The Stewards heard from the driver of Car 18 (Lance Stroll), the driver of Car 44 (Lewis Hamilton), team representatives and reviewed video and in-car video as well as team radio evidence. 

"The driver of Car 18 stated that he got impeded by Car 44 into Turn 5 and that upset him. He admitted that he wanted to express his displeasure to the other driver by pulling over on him at the exit. 

"Both cars made slight contact which was incidental. However, the Stewards consider the move made by Car 18, whilst not being dangerous, to be erratic and therefore issue a driving reprimand in line with precedents. 

"Competitors are reminded that they have the right to appeal certain decisions of the Stewards, in accordance with Article 15 of the FIA International Sporting Code and Chapter 4 of the FIA Judicial and Disciplinary Rules, within the applicable time limits. 

"Decisions of the Stewards are taken independently of the FIA and are based solely on the relevant regulations, guidelines and evidence presented."