Just In: Lewis Hamilton Hit with Grid Penalty Ahead of Canadian GP Due to T…read more
Lewis Hamilton Hit with Grid Penalty Ahead of Canadian GP Due to T…read more
Montreal, Canada — In a major twist ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, the FIA has confirmed that Lewis Hamilton, now racing for Ferrari, will receive a two-place grid penalty following an infraction from the previous race weekend. The penalty means Hamilton will drop two positions from wherever he qualifies on Saturday, potentially complicating his chances in Sunday’s race.
Although the FIA has not yet released the full details, early information indicates that the sanction stems from technical irregularities related to Ferrari’s start procedures. These launch protocols are strictly governed under Formula 1’s sporting and technical regulations. Any deviation—intentional or not—can lead to swift disciplinary action, especially when competitive advantage is at stake.
The timing of this penalty is unfortunate for Hamilton and Ferrari, who had arrived in Montreal in high spirits after bringing a package of upgrades aimed at closing the gap to Red Bull. Ferrari’s pace looked promising in Friday’s free practice sessions, and Hamilton appeared comfortable and confident behind the wheel. However, with the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve being a narrow and fast street-style track where overtaking is challenging, any grid drop could seriously affect race strategy and final results.
Ferrari responded to the FIA’s announcement with professionalism but clear disappointment. A spokesperson stated: “We respect the FIA’s judgment and the authority of the stewards. Naturally, this isn’t the news we hoped for, especially after a strong start to the weekend. However, our full focus remains on delivering performance on the track. Lewis is determined and ready to give everything.”
Hamilton himself has not yet made a public statement about the ruling, but sources within the Ferrari garage say the seven-time world champion remains composed and is channeling his energy into preparation. Known for his ability to fight through the field and adapt to difficult circumstances, Hamilton will now need to rely on both his driving skill and Ferrari’s race strategy team to recover lost ground on race day.
The FIA is expected to publish the full stewards’ report later today, which should clarify the exact nature of the breach. Until then, speculation continues among fans and pundits about what specific regulation was violated and how significant the technical error was.
This latest development adds more unpredictability to an already tense race weekend. The battle at the front is tight, with Ferrari, Red Bull, and even Mercedes showing flashes of competitiveness. With Hamilton now forced into recovery mode, the Canadian Grand Prix promises added drama as he attempts to fight back through the field.
As Formula 1 nears the midway point of the 2025 season, every race — and every point — is becoming crucial. For Hamilton and Ferrari, this penalty is a setback, but also a new challenge to overcome on the road to the championship fight.
About The Author
