F1: Brake disc failure caused Hamilton crash

The Mercedes Formula 1 team has revealed that a right front brake disc failure caused Lewis Hamilton's qualifying crash at the German Grand Prix.

The Briton spun at the Sachskurve during the first session of qualifying, hitting the barriers hard and damaging his Mercedes car. After telling his team over the radio that he suspected a brake problem had been to blame for the crash, a Mercedes investigation confirmed that Hamilton lost control of his car due to a right-front brake disc failure.

Mercedes motorsport boss Toto Wolff revealed later on that the brake disc had just been fitted to the car for qualifying.

Hamilton was taken to the medical center after the crash, having complained of hurting his knees, but was given the all clear by doctors.

Mercedes said: "He's OK but sore from the crash."

Hamilton will start 15th for the German Grand Prix.