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FIA Releases Verdict on Hamilton, Ocon, and Stroll After Spanish GP Qualifying Investigation

Drama unfolded at the Spanish Grand Prix on Saturday after qualifying, as three drivers were placed under investigation for a potential rules violation that could have impacted the starting grid for Sunday’s race. However, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has now delivered its verdict—and it’s a relief for fans of Lewis Hamilton, Esteban Ocon, and Lance Stroll.

McLaren Lockout: Piastri Takes Pole in Surprise Qualifying Outcome

Qualifying at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya brought a surprise as Oscar Piastri took his maiden Formula 1 pole position, leading a stunning 1-2 for McLaren with Lando Norris alongside him on the front row. Championship leader Max Verstappen slotted into third, setting up a thrilling showdown for Sunday’s main event.

But the celebrations were briefly clouded when news broke that Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes), Esteban Ocon (Alpine), and Lance Stroll (Aston Martin) were being investigated by the FIA stewards for breaching race regulations during the session.

What Triggered the Investigation?

The three drivers were alleged to have violated Article 33.4 of the FIA Formula One Sporting Regulations and Article 12.2.1(i) of the FIA International Sporting Code. These rules govern the minimum lap time between the two safety car lines during qualifying.

Specifically, the investigation centered on the fact that their cars dipped below the 1:25.000 time limit in this section of the track, a rule aimed at preventing excessively slow driving that could endanger others or create unfair advantages in track positioning.

Stewards Take a Closer Look – But Decide Against Penalties

Following a thorough review that included timing data, marshal reports, track position data, onboard footage, and circuit surveillance cameras, the FIA has opted not to impose any penalties on the three drivers.

In an official statement, the stewards explained:

“All drivers concerned stayed at or above speeds necessary to stay below 1:25.0 around the vast majority of the circuit.”

They added that in each case, the drivers acted responsibly by slowing down only to ensure they didn’t block or hinder faster cars approaching on a hot lap. According to the FIA:

“The stewards determined that the drivers took appropriate actions to not impede other drivers, and in all cases, they slowed down significantly to allow other drivers to pass while giving those drivers a clear track.”

As such, the verdict was clear: the drivers may have exceeded the maximum permitted lap time in parts of the circuit, but it was done for the right reasons. Hence, no further action will be taken.

No Grid Changes Ahead of Sunday’s Race

This ruling means that Hamilton, Ocon, and Stroll will retain their qualifying positions. It also sets a reasonable precedent, showing that context and intent matter when enforcing timing rules—particularly when drivers are actively trying to avoid interfering with others on the track.

With the grid now officially locked in, all eyes return to the main event. Can Piastri convert pole into his first F1 victory? Will Norris or Verstappen challenge early on? And what role will the experienced trio of Hamilton, Ocon, and Stroll play in the outcome?

The 2025 Spanish Grand Prix is shaping up to be a race to remember. Stay tuned for all the updates and post-race analysis right here.