Aston Martin had filed a protest against the result in the wake of Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz's off-track excursion in Q2.
Sainz spun out of the final corner and tapped the tyre wall on the opposite side of the circuit, causing a red flag as he was stationary for over a minute.
Article 39.6 of the F1 sporting regulations states that "any driver whose car stops on the track during the qualifying session or the sprint qualifying session shootout will not be permitted to take any further part in that session.”
But Sainz managed to get going again and following quick repairs was able to put in a lap that advanced him to Q3. He thereby knocked out Aston driver Lance Stroll, who missed the cut in 11th place.
The rule is meant to prevent drivers from rejoining the session after receiving assistance from marshals or recovery vehicles, and not those who are able to drive off under their own power.
But the exact wording of the article doesn't mention that, opening the door for Aston to have a go at protesting the result.
However, the stewards have still dismissed Aston's protest as they felt it was clear from "numerous examples" as to how the rule would be applied.
Source: Autosport