The FIA has confirmed that Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc will not face disqualification following a thorough brake system inspection after the Spanish Grand Prix, ahead of the upcoming Canadian Grand Prix. This decision came after the driver’s car passed all compliance checks designed to ensure adherence to strict technical regulations.
Inspection Process and Potential Consequences for Leclerc
Following each Formula 1 race, a random driver among the top ten finishers is subjected to detailed post-race technical examinations. Leclerc was selected after his performance at the Spanish Grand Prix, where officials focused closely on the rear brake system of his Ferrari. The controversy surrounded Article 11.1.2 of the FIA technical regulations, which prohibits any brake mechanism that creates asymmetric braking torques on a given axle.
This regulation mandates that brake forces applied to each brake pad must be equal in magnitude and act as opposing pairs to prevent any unfair performance advantage. A breach of this rule could have resulted in Leclerc’s disqualification from the Spanish race. Fortunately for both the driver and Ferrari, every examined component was compliant with FIA standards, and no penalty was imposed.
Implications of Avoiding Disqualification for Ferrari and Leclerc
Ferrari had reason to be relieved, considering the double disqualification incident earlier this season at the Chinese Grand Prix. There, both Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton lost their race finishes due to technical infringements: Leclerc’s car was 1 kilogram under the minimum 800kg weight requirement, and Hamilton’s car displayed excessive plank wear. A disqualification after the Spanish Grand Prix would have carried even higher consequences since Leclerc had earned a valuable third-place finish and podium spot.
The 27-year-old Monegasque driver’s strong performance contributed significantly to Ferrari’s surge in the 2025 season. Alongside Hamilton, Leclerc’s results helped bolster Ferrari’s position to second place in the constructors’ championship, ahead of key rivals Mercedes and Red Bull. Maintaining these points is crucial for Ferrari’s championship ambitions as the season progresses toward races such as the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal.
Ongoing Challenges and Team Dynamics in Formula 1
While this ruling offers a reprieve for Leclerc and Ferrari, the season continues under close scrutiny with heightened tension over technical compliance across teams. Instances like these highlight the fine margins and regulations that can alter championship outcomes unexpectedly, placing continuous pressure on teams to adhere strictly to FIA standards. The Canadian Grand Prix will be another milestone test for Ferrari and Leclerc as they pursue their championship goals amid ongoing rivalry and technical battles.
