FIA issue penalty verdict on Charles Leclerc at Monaco Grand Pri

FIA issue penalty verdict on Charles Leclerc at Monaco Grand Prix after…read more

The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has issued its ruling following an on-track incident involving Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll during the first free practice session (FP1) at the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix.

As is often the case at the tight and twisty Monte Carlo circuit, the FP1 session was a busy and chaotic affair. With all 20 Formula 1 drivers taking to the streets in preparation for Sunday’s race, traffic management became a major challenge. Blue flags were waved frequently to signal to slower cars that faster ones were approaching, urging them to yield and avoid impeding a flying lap.

The incident in question occurred when Leclerc, a native of Monaco, appeared to be moving slowly on the racing line as Lance Stroll was completing a high-speed timed lap. Stroll was forced to lift off the throttle and alter his line, effectively compromising his lap time. The incident was quickly noted by the race stewards, who began an investigation into whether Leclerc had unfairly hindered the Canadian driver’s progress.

Following the session, both drivers, along with representatives from Ferrari and Aston Martin, were summoned to meet with the stewards. The FIA reviewed video footage, telemetry data, and team radio transmissions to understand the circumstances surrounding the event.

After evaluating the evidence, the FIA concluded that Charles Leclerc had indeed impeded Lance Stroll, albeit unintentionally. The stewards determined that Leclerc had not been properly warned by his team about Stroll’s approach, leading to the misjudgment on track. However, as drivers are still expected to be aware of their surroundings and respond accordingly, the FIA decided to issue a formal reprimand to Leclerc.

This reprimand does not come with an immediate sporting penalty such as a grid drop, but it is recorded on the driver’s record. Accumulating multiple reprimands over the course of a season could result in further disciplinary action, including potential grid penalties if certain thresholds are crossed. This marks Leclerc’s first reprimand of the 2025 season.

Ferrari acknowledged the incident and accepted the FIA’s decision. Team Principal Fred Vasseur commented that the team would review its communication systems to ensure better awareness during busy sessions, particularly at circuits like Monaco where space is limited and timing is crucial.

Leclerc also addressed the issue after the session, stating that while the incident was unfortunate, he respected the decision made by the stewards. He emphasized how difficult it can be to navigate traffic at Monaco, especially when track space is so limited and visibility is restricted.

While the reprimand will not directly impact Leclerc’s race weekend, it serves as a reminder of the importance of driver awareness and team coordination, particularly at circuits where even the smallest misjudgment can lead to significant consequences.