FIA announce disqualification verdict for Red Bull F1 star at Miami Grand Prix
The have confirmed that Red Bull junior driver has been disqualified from qualifying at the following a breach of technical regulations.
The decision adds to an already dramatic weekend at the , where a sprint format and unpredictable weather have created a volatile competitive environment. Earlier in the weekend, was also disqualified from the sprint race due to an engine-related infringement, while the race start time for Sunday’s grand prix was brought forward amid storm concerns.
Technical breach triggers FIA action
Hadjar, 21, had originally secured ninth place in qualifying, putting himself in a competitive midfield position for Sunday’s race. However, post-session scrutineering by FIA Technical Delegate revealed that the floor boards on his RB22 extended 2mm beyond the permitted reference volume on both sides of the car.
This constitutes a clear violation of Article C3.5.5 of the FIA’s technical regulations, which govern bodywork dimensions and legality. The matter was subsequently referred to the race stewards for formal review.
Stewards confirm disqualification
After being summoned, Red Bull representatives did not contest the findings. In their official statement, the stewards confirmed that the infringement warranted the standard penalty for such violations.
“The stewards heard from the team representatives of Car 6. They did not dispute the findings of the Technical Delegate that portions of the LHS and RHS floor boards were protruding 2mm out of the reference volume,” the FIA document stated.
As a result, Hadjar has been disqualified from the qualifying classification entirely. His ninth-place grid slot has been voided, and he will now start Sunday’s 57-lap race from the back of the grid in P22, after being granted permission to race.
Setback for Red Bull
The ruling marks a significant setback for , particularly given the tight competition in the midfield and the strategic importance of track position at the Miami circuit.
With overtaking historically challenging at this venue, Hadjar now faces an uphill battle to recover positions during the race, especially under potentially disrupted weather conditions.
The disqualification underscores the FIA’s strict enforcement of technical compliance, where even marginal deviations such as a 2mm excess—can carry severe competitive consequences.