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FIA Hands Ollie Bearman Major Penalty for Red Flag Violation at Monaco Grand Prix
The FIA has issued a significant 10-place grid penalty to Formula 1 rookie Ollie Bearman after he breached race regulations during Friday’s FP2 session at the Monaco Grand Prix.
The incident occurred when red flags were brought out following a crash involving McLaren’s Oscar Piastri. During the pause, onboard footage revealed Bearman overtaking Carlos Sainz’s Williams — a move strictly prohibited under red flag conditions. The stewards promptly launched an investigation and summoned Bearman after the session.
In their official verdict, the FIA emphasized the severity of the infraction:
“Drivers are required to reduce speed immediately and proceed slowly to the pits. Overtaking is forbidden during red flag periods, as race or service vehicles may be on track.”
As a result, Bearman received a 10-place grid drop and two penalty points on his license. The penalty comes as a major blow for the 20-year-old, who had already struggled for pace, placing 15th in both practice sessions. If those results carry into qualifying, Bearman could be forced to start the race at the very back — a huge disadvantage at a circuit known for limited overtaking opportunities.
Bearman argued that slowing down suddenly could have been more dangerous, but the stewards dismissed his defense, stating that the rules are designed specifically to ensure safety in uncertain conditions like those seen during red flag periods — especially on Monaco’s unforgiving layout.
The penalty puts Bearman alongside Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll, who was also handed a grid drop, albeit a smaller one-place penalty. With tensions high and penalties already stacking up, Sunday’s race in Monte Carlo promises to be a dramatic affair.
