In a dramatic twist at the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix, Ferrari drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc and Alpine’s Pierre Gasly faced disqualification after the race. This unprecedented event marked the first time in Ferrari’s 75-year history that their cars were disqualified from the same race.
Reasons for Disqualification
Post-race inspections by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) revealed technical infringements in the vehicles of the disqualified drivers:
- Charles Leclerc and Pierre Gasly: Both cars were found to be under the minimum weight requirement. After fuel was drained, each vehicle weighed 799 kg, falling 1 kg short of the mandated 800 kg minimum.
- Lewis Hamilton: The skid block on Hamilton’s car exhibited excessive wear. Measurements indicated thicknesses between 8.5 mm and 8.6 mm, below the FIA’s minimum requirement of 9 mm.
Impact on Chinese Grand Prix Race Results
The disqualifications led to significant changes in the final standings:
- Oscar Piastri (McLaren): Secured his third Formula 1 victory, showcasing McLaren’s competitive edge.
- Lando Norris (McLaren): Completed a one-two finish for McLaren, underlining the team’s dominance in Shanghai.
- George Russell (Mercedes): Clinched the third spot on the podium, benefiting from the disqualifications.
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull): Advanced to fourth place, capitalizing on the revised standings.
- Esteban Ocon (Haas): Achieved a commendable fifth position, marking a significant result for Haas.
- Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes): The rookie performed excellently, finishing sixth. citeturn0search0
- Alexander Albon (Williams): Secured seventh place, reflecting Williams’ ongoing improvements.
- Oliver Bearman (Haas): Finished eighth, contributing valuable points to Haas’ championship aspirations.
- Lance Stroll (Aston Martin): Moved up to ninth, adding to Aston Martin’s points tally.
- Carlos Sainz (Williams): Rounded out the top ten, ensuring a double points finish for Williams.
Technical Regulations and Compliance
Formula 1’s stringent technical regulations are designed to ensure safety and maintain competitive fairness:
- Minimum Weight Requirement: Cars must weigh at least 800 kg without fuel. This rule ensures structural integrity and parity among teams.
- Skid Block Specifications: The skid block, or “plank,” protects the car’s underbody and regulates ride height. It must maintain a minimum thickness of 9 mm. Excessive wear can indicate that a car has been running too close to the track surface, potentially offering aerodynamic advantages.
Ferrari’s Response
Ferrari acknowledged the infractions, attributing them to genuine errors without mitigating circumstances.
Looking Ahead
The disqualifications at the Chinese Grand Prix serve as a stark reminder of the critical importance of adhering to technical regulations in Formula 1. Compliance protocols are expected to be reviewed to prevent infractions, ensuring on-track performances remain in final classifications.
