Schumacher reprimanded for Barrichello block

FIA race stewards in Korea, one of which is 1980 World Champion Alan Jones, have handed Michael Schumacher an official reprimand for holding up Rubens Barrichello through five corners – Turns 10 to 14 – in Q2 qualifying on Saturday.

Williams’ Barrichello, former Ferrari team-mate of Schumacher, was left furious in Q2 as he was held up by the Mercedes when winding up for a flying lap.

After hearing opinions from both drivers plus senior team representatives, the stewards decided that a reprimand would suffice for the 7-time World Champion.

‘The stewards note that, irrespective of the team (Mercedes)’s opinion that car 9 (Barrichello) was not on a “fast lap", it is ultimately the driver’s responsibility to be conscious of closing cars via the use of mirrors and blue flags/lights,’ reads an additional note on the bottom of the stewards’ report.

Also, other Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg has been cleared of an any penalty following an alleged baulking of Fernando Alonso – which caused the Spaniard to brake sharply – in the morning’s third practice session.