Breaking: F1 star’s podium finish under threat as FIA announce… Read more
George Russell’s second-place finish at the Bahrain Grand Prix is now under scrutiny, as the FIA has launched a post-race investigation into a potential rules violation concerning the use of DRS (Drag Reduction System). The Mercedes driver has been summoned by race stewards to explain an incident that occurred during the race, where he allegedly activated the DRS outside of the permitted zones or without meeting the required conditions.
DRS is a system in Formula 1 that allows drivers to open a flap in their rear wing to reduce aerodynamic drag and increase straight-line speed. However, its use is heavily regulated. Drivers are only permitted to activate DRS when they are within one second of the car ahead and only in specific sections of the track, known as DRS zones. According to race footage and telemetry data, Russell may have opened the DRS flap when he was not within the mandatory one-second range of the driver in front, and possibly outside the designated DRS areas.
It has also been reported that Russell was experiencing technical issues with his deployment system during the race, which could have led to the unauthorized DRS activation. Regardless of the cause, the FIA is taking the incident seriously, and the outcome of their investigation could have significant consequences for Russell’s final race result.
If the stewards find that a breach of regulations did occur, the penalties could vary depending on the severity and intent of the infraction. A five or ten-second time penalty would be the most likely outcome, which would be enough to demote Russell from second to fourth place. In that case, both Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc would move up the standings, pushing Russell off the podium. A more severe penalty – though considered unlikely – could even see Lewis Hamilton climb to fourth place, further shaking up the final results.
The FIA released a statement confirming the investigation, stating: “The driver and team representative are required to report to the Stewards at 20:45, in relation to the incident below.” The statement points directly to the potential misuse of the DRS system.
As of now, Russell and the Mercedes team are awaiting the outcome of the stewards’ review. If he is cleared, Russell will retain his second-place finish and the valuable championship points that come with it. However, if a penalty is issued, it will mark a significant blow to both his personal campaign and Mercedes’ standing in the Constructors’ Championship early in the season.
