As the tension mounts ahead of the Italian Grand Prix, a dramatic turn of events is set to shake up the grid as multiple drivers are poised to start from the pit lane. Pierre Gasly, the Alpine driver, finds himself at the center of this brewing controversy after a disheartening qualifying session that saw him clock in at a disappointing 19th place. The stakes couldn’t be higher as Gasly’s car has been sent to the stewards for inspection, raising questions about Alpine’s compliance with essential regulations.
The FIA’s technical delegate, Jo Bauer, brought to light a critical oversight by Alpine; they failed to cover Gasly’s car within the mandated two-hour window following the conclusion of qualifying. This violation is a clear breach of Article 40.6 of the sporting regulations, which explicitly requires that all cars “must be covered and ready for FIA seals to be applied” promptly after the chequered flag falls. This lapse in protocol mirrors a similar misstep by Haas just a week prior at Zandvoort, where an improper power unit change led to repercussions for the team.
The implications for Gasly are significant. It appears he will be fitted with new components, a move that directly contravenes the stringent parc fermé conditions designed to ensure fair competition. Consequently, he faces the sobering reality of starting his race from the pit lane, a daunting prospect that could severely hinder his chances for a competitive finish.
Moreover, Gasly is not alone in this predicament; he is set to be joined by Racing Bulls’ Isack Hadjar, who has confirmed his own likely power unit change following qualifying. This dual pit lane start not only heightens the drama for fans but also reshapes the dynamics of the race itself, as both drivers will have to navigate through the challenges of starting from the back of the pack.
With the Italian Grand Prix on the horizon and these developments unfolding, the excitement is palpable. Fans are left to ponder how these decisions will affect the race strategy and what it means for Alpine and Racing Bulls in their quest for points in this fiercely competitive season. The stage is set for a thrilling showdown in Monza, where every second on the track counts more than ever.
