Breaking: F1 Team Demands FIA Investigation After Controversial Imola Grand Prix De…read more
F1 Team Demands FIA Investigation After Controversial Imola Grand Prix Decision
Haas F1 Team has formally requested an investigation from the FIA following a contentious decision that saw Ollie Bearman’s crucial qualifying lap deleted during the 2025 Imola Grand Prix weekend.
Bearman, who initially set a lap time good enough for P10 in Q1, was denied progression into Q2 after the FIA invalidated the lap on the grounds that it was completed after a red flag was triggered due to Franco Colapinto’s crash. However, Haas and Bearman have challenged the ruling, insisting that the Brit crossed the line before the red flag was actually deployed.
Although the FIA delayed the start of Q2 to review the timing, Bearman’s lap was not reinstated. Footage from the session appeared to show Bearman finishing his lap before any red flag indication was made at the finish line, raising further questions about the decision-making process.
Haas Calls for Transparency and Clarification
In a statement issued after the race, Haas called for greater clarity and consistency from the sport’s governing body.
“After discussions last night with the FIA, we have subsequently asked for further written clarification on the decision-making concerning Ollie Bearman’s final Q1 lap, in order for us to review more comprehensively,” the team said.
“We similarly asked what measures the FIA/race control can put in place moving forward to ensure that this situation is avoided in the future to the benefit of F1. Upon review, we will be more informed to comment.”
According to the FIA, Bearman crossed the line at 16:32:20.9, while the red flag was officially issued at 16:32:17.6—a timeline that seems to contradict Haas’ claims. A spokesperson added that although the red flag wasn’t visibly waved at the start-finish line, the orange ‘abort lap’ lights were active on the gantry, signaling the stoppage.
Bearman, however, offered a different view.
“We get the red light on our dash. That for me didn’t happen until quite a way after I crossed the line,” the 19-year-old said. “Watching the outboard video, it was clear that there was no red flag displayed when I crossed the line.
So, I believe it’s totally unfair to have the lap deleted. I feel like once they make a decision even if it’s wrong they’re not going to turn back on it. And that seems a bit harsh.”
With growing pressure for procedural transparency, Haas’ push for answers could reignite debate over how race control handles time-sensitive decisions, particularly in high-stakes qualifying scenarios. The FIA has yet to confirm whether it will re-review the incident or make procedural changes based on Haas’ request.
