Breaking:FIA announce Charles Leclerc disqualification verdict ahead of C...read more

The FIA have announced the outcome of a series of tests ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix for Ferrari F1 driver Charles Leclerc – one of which could have seen the Monegasque driver disqualified.

The FIA has confirmed that Charles Leclerc will not face disqualification following a detailed technical inspection of his Ferrari, conducted after the Spanish Grand Prix. The results of the investigation were released in the lead-up to the Canadian Grand Prix, relieving any uncertainty surrounding the Monegasque driver’s podium finish.

As part of standard post-race procedures, the FIA randomly selects one of the top 10 finishers for comprehensive scrutiny to ensure full compliance with the sport’s stringent technical regulations. For the Spanish GP, it was Leclerc’s turn, with inspectors focusing on several key areas of his Ferrari, including a thorough check of the rear brake system.

A potentially disqualifying issue arose during the inspection, centered around Article 11.1.2 of Formula One’s technical rulebook. This regulation mandates that the braking forces applied across each axle must be symmetrical—ensuring equal pressure on either side of a given brake disc. Any intentional or systematic creation of uneven braking torque is strictly prohibited and would result in automatic disqualification.

Had the FIA found any irregularities in Leclerc’s braking system, the consequences would have been severe. He stood to lose his third-place finish in Spain, along with the valuable championship points that come with a podium result.

However, after meticulous evaluation, the FIA concluded that all components on Leclerc’s car adhered to the regulations. As a result, no penalties or sanctions were issued, allowing Leclerc to retain his podium and Ferrari to keep the points.

This positive outcome comes as a relief to Ferrari, especially after a turbulent moment earlier in the 2025 season. At the Chinese Grand Prix, both Leclerc and Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton faced disqualification. Leclerc’s car was found to be 1kg under the mandatory minimum weight of 800kg, while Hamilton’s vehicle exhibited excessive plank wear—violations that led to both drivers losing their respective fifth and sixth-place finishes.

Had another disqualification occurred in Spain, the implications would have been even more damaging for Ferrari’s championship campaign. Leclerc’s third-place finish significantly contributed to the team’s current surge in the standings. So far in 2025, he has collected three podium finishes and, alongside Hamilton, has helped propel Ferrari to second in the constructors’ championship—surpassing rivals Mercedes and Red Bull.

With the Canadian Grand Prix approaching, Leclerc and the Ferrari camp can now shift their full focus to continuing their momentum on the track, reassured that their car remains within legal parameters.