Breaking:FIA issue Monaco Grand Prix penalty verdict after… read more
FIA issue Monaco Grand Prix penalty verdict after… read more
The FIA has delivered its verdict following a collision between Charles Leclerc and Lance Stroll during the first practice session (FP1) of the Monaco Grand Prix weekend. The incident, which took place at the tight and twisty Monaco street circuit, saw both drivers involved in an unfortunate clash at the hairpin as traffic caused congestion on the narrow track.
With all 20 drivers on track during FP1, space was at a premium, and blue flags were being waved to alert slower drivers to move aside for those on flying laps. Charles Leclerc, driving for Ferrari and on a hot lap, approached the hairpin where Lance Stroll, in his Aston Martin, was running at a slower pace. Stroll, unaware of Leclerc’s rapid approach, was slow to yield, resulting in Leclerc colliding into the back of the Aston Martin.
The crash caused visible damage to Leclerc’s car, specifically the loss of the left section of his front wing. The debris from the collision forced race officials to red-flag the session temporarily. Despite the setback, Leclerc managed to return to the pits, had his front wing replaced, and resumed the session, eventually setting the fastest lap time in FP1. He continued his impressive form into FP2 later that evening by topping the timesheets once again.
For Lance Stroll, the consequences were far more significant. The impact damaged several crucial components of his car, including the gearbox, rear suspension, and diffuser. These issues meant he could not rejoin the session, forcing his Aston Martin team to conduct extensive repairs ahead of the second practice session.
After the session, the incident was referred to the FIA stewards for further investigation. Stroll was summoned to explain his actions and whether he breached Appendix L, Chapter IV, Article 2 d) of the International Sporting Code, which concerns driver conduct and track etiquette.
Upon reviewing the evidence, including team radio communications and onboard footage, the stewards concluded that Stroll was entirely at fault for the collision. They determined that the Aston Martin driver failed to appropriately respond to blue flags and did not adequately manage the space around him as Leclerc approached. Although it was noted that there had been a miscommunication over team radio, the stewards emphasized that this did not excuse the failure to yield.
As a result, Stroll was handed a one-place grid penalty for Sunday’s Monaco Grand Prix. In addition, he received one penalty point on his FIA Super Licence, adding to his annual tally.
The incident underlined the importance of clear communication between drivers and their teams, particularly on a circuit as demanding and unforgiving as Monaco. It also highlighted how minor errors in such a tightly contested environment can have significant consequences for teams and drivers during a Gran
d Prix weekend.
