Breaking:Two formula 1 drivers currently under investigation after Hamilton’s huge cr…read more
Two formula 1 drivers currently under investigation after Hamilton’s huge cr…read more
Two prominent Formula 1 drivers, Franco Colapinto and Carlos Sainz, are currently under investigation by FIA stewards at the Monaco Grand Prix for alleged red flag violations. The incidents in question occurred during separate practice sessions and could result in serious grid penalties—potentially jeopardizing their race prospects on a circuit where overtaking is notoriously difficult.
Colapinto, a young Argentine driver recently promoted to Alpine’s main lineup, was involved in an incident during the final practice session (FP3) on Saturday. A red flag was issued following a crash involving Lewis Hamilton, and it is alleged that Colapinto failed to comply with the red flag regulations. In addition to this, earlier in the same session, Colapinto impeded one of the Haas drivers. Although this impeding incident is not being formally investigated since it occurred during practice, it raises questions about Colapinto’s readiness for the demands of racing at Monaco—especially given this is his first appearance at the historic track in an F1 car.
Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz of Williams has also been summoned by FIA officials over an alleged infringement that took place a day earlier, during the second free practice session (FP2) on Friday. His case has only recently come to light, and the specifics of his red flag violation remain unclear. However, Sainz’s situation is being taken seriously, particularly in light of a recent precedent: Oliver Bearman received a severe 10-place grid penalty for a similar offense during the same weekend.
A grid drop at Monaco is particularly damaging due to the layout of the circuit. Even with the introduction of new regulations that mandate a minimum of two pit stops for all drivers, overtaking on the narrow streets remains extremely difficult. Therefore, any starting position disadvantage could severely hinder a driver’s ability to move up the field and score points.
The FIA confirmed that Sainz had been formally summoned following FP3, but has yet to release an official statement regarding Colapinto’s status. Both drivers are now anxiously awaiting the stewards’ decisions, which could dramatically alter their weekend strategies.
Colapinto’s promotion to Alpine’s race seat came after just six races as a reserve driver, replacing Jack Doohan due to a series of underwhelming performances. Since stepping into the spotlight, Colapinto has been under pressure to deliver results. Alpine executive advisor Flavio Briatore laid out his expectations plainly last week, saying, “He needs to be fast, not crash, and score points. I’m only asking him these three things—not 10.”
Despite managing to get through all three practice sessions in Monaco without any crashes, Colapinto’s alleged failure to adhere to red flag protocol could cost him dearly. If the stewards hand down a heavy penalty, it could cripple his chances of achieving a points finish—a key goal for both himself and his team.
As the Monaco Grand Prix draws near, the fate of both Colapinto and Sainz hangs in the balance. Their final grid positions will depend on the outcome of these investigations, making the stewards’ verdicts some of the most crucial decisions of
the weekend.
