Charles Leclerc and Pierre Gasly were both excluded from the Chinese Grand Prix because their vehicles did not meet the required weight limit, coming in 1 kg lighter than permitted post-race.
Following post-race inspections conducted by the FIA, both drivers were called for further examination. On that particular day, Leclerc secured fifth place, whereas Gasly crossed the line just beyond the point-scoring positions at 11th. However, these outcomes have been annulled subsequently.
Formula 1 updates: Leclerc and Gasly called for their cars being below the minimum weight
Both
Leclerc
And Gasly had their vehicles’ weights checked following the race, ensuring that together, the car and driver met the 800kg minimum weight requirement.
Each of the Ferrari and Alpine cars had a dry weight of 799kg once their fuel samples were taken out. Although Leclerc damaged a front wing endplate during the competition, the FIA verified that the absent piece was found and included in his total vehicle mass when weighing. Additionally, a new front wing was fitted to confirm adherence with regulations.
The issue was handed over to the stewards, as George Russell had faced disqualification for the same violation following the Belgian Grand Prix from the previous season.
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In their ruling, the stewards stated that they found ‘no mitigating circumstances’ for the action, leading to a disqualification of both drivers.
In their ruling for both drivers, they stated: “There was no dispute during the hearing regarding the FIA’s measurements, which have been accepted as accurate, and it has been confirmed that all necessary protocols were followed appropriately.”
There are no extenuating factors, and the team verified that it was indeed a legitimate mistake on their part.
The stewards have determined that Article 4.1 of the FIA Formula 1 Technical Regulations was violated, hence the mandatory punishment of disqualification must be enforced due to this breach.
Both Ferrari and Alpine retain their right to appeal, however, the situation deteriorated further following Lewis Hamilton’s disqualification from Scuderia Ferrari due to excessive wear on the car’s plank as seen on the SF-25.
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