Hamilton given new tyre, Sainz and Magnussen grid penalties

Baku : Lewis Hamilton was given a new left front tyre and Carlos Sainz and Kevin Magnussen were handed five-place grid penalties ahead of Sunday’s European Grand Prix.

Defending three-time champion Hamilton flat-spotted his tyre in qualifying and the stewards on Sunday ruled that it was damaged and could be replaced.

Spaniard Sainz and Dane Magnussen were both penalised for gearbox changes prior to the race on Baku’s tricky new street circuit at Azerbaijan’s inaugural Formula One event.

Pirelli confirmed approval had been given for Hamilton’s tyre change and Mercedes clarified which one was to be replaced.

Hamilton starts from 10th on the grid while his Mercedes team-mate and championship leader Nico Rosberg starts from pole position.

Sainz of Toro Rosso had qualified in 13th place and Mangussen in 21st, one ahead of Renault team-mate Jolyon Palmer. Magnussen will start from the pit-lane.