FIA Announces LATE Demotion for Red Bull’s Yuki Star After...read more

FIA Announces Late Demotion for Red Bull’s Yuki Tsunoda at Imola Grand Prix

In a dramatic turn of events ahead of the Imola Grand Prix, the FIA has confirmed that Red Bull F1 driver Yuki Tsunoda will start the race from the pit lane following a major crash during Saturday’s qualifying session.

Tsunoda endured a terrifying accident at the Villeneuve corner shortly after Tamburello, where his car flipped after spinning into the barrier. The vehicle came to rest upside down before the roll hoop helped return it to a stable position. Remarkably, Tsunoda walked away unscathed and was medically cleared shortly after the incident.

The crash occurred early in Q1, preventing Tsunoda from setting a time, which originally meant a P20 grid start. However, due to the severity of the damage, Red Bull was forced to undertake significant rebuilds, including a survival cell replacement and the installation of new power unit components. These changes included a new internal combustion engine, turbocharger, MGU-H, MGU-K, energy store, control electronics, and exhaust system.

According to an official FIA document, “For the re-build of car 22 after the survival cell change, the Oracle Red Bull Racing team used several components of different specification. Therefore car number 22 should now be required to start the Race from the pit lane according to Article 40.9 a) of the 2025 Formula 1 Sporting Regulations.”

While the stewards have yet to officially confirm the ruling, it is expected to be finalized shortly, with no opposition anticipated.

Tsunoda’s setback adds to a dramatic weekend at Imola, which has already seen headlines involving Lewis Hamilton and disciplinary actions against Ferrari.