FIA Drops Bombshell: Mercedes F1 Star George Russell Slammed

FIA Drops Bombshell: Mercedes F1 Star George Russell Slammed with Double Penalty in Wi…read more

In a shocking turn of events that has sent ripples through the Formula 1 world, Mercedes driver George Russell has found himself at the centre of an explosive controversy following the Canadian Grand Prix. In an unprecedented twist, the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) has issued not one, but two penalties against the British driver, compounding his race day misery and stunning fans across the globe.

What makes this situation even more unbelievable is the dramatic shake-up that occurred within the stewarding panel itself. Veteran F1 steward Derek Warwick was suddenly removed from his post overnight after allegedly making unauthorised comments to the media—comments that reportedly breached strict FIA protocols. In a jaw-dropping decision, the FIA replaced Warwick with former F1 driver Enrique Bernoldi, who astonishingly conducted his stewarding duties remotely from Geneva, far from the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.

This rare reshuffling of stewards mid-event has raised serious questions about the integrity and consistency of the officiating process. Fans and experts alike have been left stunned, with many wondering if Warwick’s removal and the subsequent double punishment for Russell were connected.

The first blow to Russell came after a misjudged manoeuvre during the race, which resulted in an on-track error deemed punishable by the stewards. But the real shocker was the second penalty slapped on him in the same session, something almost unheard of in recent F1 history. The double strike has dealt a significant blow to Russell’s standing in both the race and the championship battle, with Mercedes now facing a fresh wave of scrutiny over their strategy and driver discipline.

Insiders claim the FIA acted swiftly and decisively following Warwick’s supposed breach of conduct. His reported comments, which have yet to be fully disclosed, were deemed serious enough to warrant his immediate replacement. The FIA’s statement confirmed the personnel change and the subsequent stewarding decisions but stopped short of providing detailed explanations about Warwick’s alleged misstep.

This sensational development has ignited intense debate across the paddock, with rival teams quietly questioning whether the rapid switch in stewards may have influenced the severity of the penalties imposed on Russell. Some suggest that the incoming steward’s remote oversight could have introduced a new perspective—or even a harsher stance—on the incidents involving the Mercedes star.

Social media has erupted with fans expressing disbelief and frustration, with some calling the situation a “total farce” and others accusing the FIA of inconsistency. Mercedes has yet to issue an official response, but team insiders indicate that they may pursue a formal appeal or at least seek clarification over the decisions that turned Russell’s race into a nightmare.

As the dust settles, one thing is clear: this Canadian Grand Prix will not soon be forgotten. The FIA’s double punishment and the sensational stewarding shake-up have combined to deliver one of the most shocking post-race twists Formula 1 has seen in years.