FIA Disqualifies Three F1 Drivers Following Controversial…Read more
FIA Disqualifies Three F1 Drivers Following Controversial Chinese Grand Prix
The Chinese Grand Prix has ended in controversy after the FIA announced the disqualification of three drivers from the final results. The dramatic turn of events reshuffled the race classification and added another twist to an already eventful weekend in Shanghai.
The race, held at the Shanghai International Circuit, initially concluded with a historic celebration for McLaren. The British team achieved a significant milestone, securing their 50th one-two finish in Formula 1. Young Australian star Oscar Piastri led the charge from pole position, converting it into a commanding win—his second career victory. Despite battling brake issues throughout the race, his teammate Lando Norris managed to hold on to second place, helping McLaren seal the memorable achievement.
The 56-lap contest began smoothly at 3pm local time, with drivers jostling for positions in the early stages. However, drama quickly unfolded on the opening lap. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton were involved in an unfortunate collision. Leclerc’s SF-25 made contact with Hamilton’s car, resulting in visible damage to Leclerc’s front wing as his left-side endplate broke off.
Although the incident seemed minor at the time, Leclerc continued without the damaged part and appeared to maintain competitive pace throughout the race. Ferrari did not bring him in for repairs, and both drivers pressed on without further significant incidents. However, post-race scrutiny by Formula 1’s governing body told a different story.
In a stunning post-race decision, the FIA ruled that both Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton were to be disqualified from the final classification. The FIA cited a technical infringement, although the full details of the violations have yet to be fully disclosed. A third driver, whose identity has also now been confirmed by race officials, was also disqualified for a separate technical breach, adding further confusion and reshuffling the points distribution.
This latest development has significantly altered the race outcome and championship standings. With Leclerc and Hamilton removed from the final results, several midfield drivers have now moved up in the standings, benefiting from the unexpected reshuffle. Teams that initially thought they were out of the points now find themselves collecting valuable championship points.
The disqualifications have sparked debate among fans and pundits alike, with some questioning the timing and severity of the FIA’s actions. Technical disqualifications are not uncommon in Formula 1, but the impact is always considerable—especially when front-running drivers are affected. Both Ferrari and Mercedes have yet to issue full statements, though it is expected that appeals or clarifications may follow in the coming days.
Despite the controversy, the spotlight remains on McLaren’s impressive performance. Oscar Piastri’s dominance from start to finish marked another high point in his young career, while Norris’s ability to hold off competitors with technical issues underlined the team’s strength and resilience.
As Formula 1 heads into the next race weekend, the paddock is still buzzing from the fallout of Shanghai. With three drivers now officially disqualified and teams reassessing strategies, the 2025 season has already proven unpredictable and thrilling. All eyes will now turn to the next Grand Prix, where teams and fans alike will be hoping for clarity, clean racing, and less post-race drama.
