F1 2025 Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix: Final Starting Grid Confirmed After…readmore
The FIA has officially released the final starting grid for the 2025 Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix at Imola, marking the seventh round of the current Formula 1 season. A late change involving grid penalties has altered the original lineup, reshaping the front of the pack ahead of what promises to be an intense race at the historic Italian circuit.
Oscar Piastri had initially dazzled in Saturday’s qualifying session, producing a stunning lap that secured him provisional pole position. The young McLaren driver looked set to lead the field when lights go out on Sunday, staking his claim as one of the sport’s rising stars. However, his celebration was cut short after the FIA reviewed an incident involving Piastri and Haas driver Kevin Magnussen during Q1. The investigation concluded that Piastri had impeded Magnussen, preventing the Dane from completing a crucial flying lap.
Although Piastri claimed he was unaware of Magnussen’s approach and had no intent to obstruct, the stewards held McLaren responsible for not alerting their driver to oncoming traffic. As a result, Piastri received a three-place grid penalty. This sanction drops him from first to fifth on the starting grid, significantly altering the front row and handing a valuable advantage to his rivals.
With Piastri penalized, Max Verstappen, who had originally qualified second, now inherits pole position. The reigning world champion will start from the front, giving him a prime opportunity to extend his championship lead. Verstappen’s promotion also allows Lando Norris, Piastri’s teammate at McLaren, to move up to second and start alongside the Red Bull driver on the front row.
The revised grid also benefits Ferrari, much to the delight of the tifosi. Charles Leclerc will now line up third, while Carlos Sainz slots into fourth. Both drivers are well-placed to fight for a home podium at one of Italy’s most beloved circuits.
George Russell of Mercedes will start sixth, followed closely by Yuki Tsunoda in seventh. Lewis Hamilton, Daniel Ricciardo, and Nico Hülkenberg round out the top ten, each looking to gain ground with strategic pit stops and clean opening laps.
Elsewhere, Fernando Alonso faces a tough challenge after Aston Martin made significant changes to his car’s setup post-qualifying. As a result, Alonso will begin the race from the pit lane, severely compromising his chances of scoring points unless a safety car or weather conditions offer unexpected opportunities.
As the teams prepare for lights out, the updated starting order introduces new dynamics to the race strategy. Verstappen will aim to capitalize on his elevated starting position, while Piastri will need to fight back through the field to challenge for victory. With overtaking at Imola notoriously difficult, track position will be crucial, and every position gained or lost at the start could prove decisive in the race outcome.
