Formula 1 has been thrown into fresh controversy after Red Bull and McLaren confirmed their intention to appeal the FIA’s decision to alter the final classification of the Monaco Grand Prix.
Earlier on Friday, the FIA announced that Alpine driver Pierre Gasly had been restored to third place in the Monaco race following a successful Right of Review request submitted by the French team. The ruling overturned the pit-lane speeding penalties that had previously dropped Gasly down the order and cost him a podium finish.
The decision marked another dramatic twist in what has already become one of the most debated races of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Alpine argued that new and significant evidence had emerged after the race, prompting the FIA to reopen the case. Following a hearing, the stewards agreed with Alpine’s position and rescinded both five-second penalties that had been imposed on Gasly during the event.
As a result, the Frenchman was reinstated to third place in the official race results, dramatically reshaping the Monaco podium and affecting the championship standings.
However, the FIA’s verdict has sparked strong opposition from rival teams. During the review hearing, Red Bull, Racing Bulls and McLaren all presented arguments against Alpine’s request, maintaining that the original penalties should remain in place. Despite their objections, the stewards ruled in Alpine’s favour.
The controversy has not ended there. Both Red Bull and McLaren have now formally notified the FIA that they plan to challenge the revised outcome. Racing Bulls are also understood to be considering further action as frustration grows within the paddock over the handling of the case.
The appeals process could lead to another review of the evidence and potentially result in yet another change to the Monaco Grand Prix classification. If successful, the appeals could reverse Gasly’s reinstatement and restore the original race order, creating further uncertainty for teams, drivers and fans.
The situation has generated significant debate throughout Formula 1, with many questioning the consistency of stewarding decisions and the effectiveness of the Right of Review procedure. While Alpine insists that justice has been served after presenting new evidence, rival teams argue that overturning penalties days after a race undermines confidence in the sport’s officiating process.
The ongoing dispute has also added further tension to an already fiercely competitive championship battle. Every point is proving crucial in the fight for both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships, making any alteration to race results highly significant.
For now, Gasly remains officially classified as the third-place finisher in Monaco. However, with appeals now being prepared by multiple teams, the final outcome of the race may still be far from settled.
As Formula 1 heads to its next event, attention is likely to remain focused on the FIA and the appeals process, with the Monaco Grand Prix saga continuing to dominate headlines and create uncertainty across the paddock.
