The FIA have announced a penalty verdict for both Mercedes Formula 1 drivers following a team mishap during qualifying for this weekend’s Bahrain Grand Prix.

During Q2 of Saturday’s session, a red flag was caused by a major crash for Esteban Ocon, but following the incident, Mercedes released both drivers out of the garage after the estimated time of resumption had been announced, not the confirmed time.

The FIA confirmed an official investigation into Toto Wolff’s outfit was taking place for failing to follow race directors instructions and leaving the garage before resumption time had been announced, with the confirmed penalty decision now altering the starting grid for Sunday’s race.

Mercedes FIA verdict in full after major Bahrain GP mistake

The stewards heard from the team representative, the Race Director and FIA single seater sporting director and reviewed video, timing, team radio and in-car video evidence, although the drivers were excused from attending.