The FIA has made an official announcement regarding a request from the Red Bull Formula 1 team ahead of the Imola Grand Prix, the seventh round of the 2025 season. The team, led by Christian Horner, has been facing a challenging start to the year, managing only one Grand Prix victory and initiating a driver swap for Max Verstappen’s teammate.
Yuki Tsunoda, who replaced Liam Lawson from the Japanese GP onwards, is still getting accustomed to the RB21. Despite being an official Red Bull driver for four race weekends, Tsunoda’s best result has been a P9 finish in Bahrain. The team is in desperate need of a points overhaul to boost their position in the constructors’ championship.
During Saturday’s qualifying session, Tsunoda was involved in a dramatic incident where he flipped his Red Bull car and crashed into the catch fence after taking a significant amount of kerb. Fortunately, the young driver escaped the accident unharmed, but his chances of progressing to Q2 seemed slim. As a result, Tsunoda registered a DNQ (Did Not Qualify), meaning he wasn’t given an official starting position for Sunday’s race.
However, the FIA has since released a statement confirming Red Bull’s request to allow Tsunoda to start from the back of the pack in Imola. According to Article 39.4 b) of the FIA Formula One sporting regulations, the stewards granted permission for Tsunoda to start the race, given that he had set satisfactory times in practice sessions during the competition.
As per the provisional starting grid for Sunday’s race, Tsunoda will officially start the Imola Grand Prix from P20. This decision allows the Japanese driver to participate in the race, despite his unfortunate qualifying session.
The Imola Grand Prix promises to be an exciting event, with Max Verstappen looking to claim his second victory of the season. The Dutch driver has shown promising form during Saturday’s qualifying, and his team will be hoping to build on this momentum.
Red Bull’s decision to request permission for Tsunoda to start the race highlights the team’s commitment to their drivers and their determination to make the most of the situation. Despite the challenges they have faced this season, the team remains focused on securing points and improving their position in the constructors’ championship.
As the grid prepares for the start of the Imola Grand Prix, all eyes will be on Tsunoda as he looks to make an impact despite his challenging qualifying session. The young driver will be eager to prove himself and contribute to the team’s success, while Verstappen will aim to build on his promising qualifying performance.
The FIA’s decision to grant Red Bull’s request demonstrates the flexibility and understanding that exists within the sport. By allowing Tsunoda to start the race, the FIA is giving the team and the driver an opportunity to showcase their skills and determination.
In conclusion, the Imola Grand Prix is set to be an exciting and unpredictable event, with Red Bull looking to bounce back from a challenging season. With Tsunoda starting from P20 and Verstappen aiming for victory, the team will be hoping to secure a strong result and boost their position in the constructors’ championship.
