FIA Confirms Shock Late Disqualification After Dramatic Canadian Grand Prix
The FIA has confirmed a shock late disqualification following the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix, adding fresh controversy to an already chaotic weekend in Montreal.
Hours after the chequered flag fell at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, race officials completed a series of post-race investigations that reshuffled parts of the final classification and sparked major debate across the Formula 1 paddock. The decision came after FIA stewards reviewed technical and sporting compliance reports from several teams following Sunday’s dramatic race.
The Canadian Grand Prix itself delivered intense action from start to finish, with Kimi Antonelli securing his fourth consecutive Formula 1 victory after a fierce battle with Mercedes team-mate George Russell ended in heartbreak due to Russell’s retirement. Lewis Hamilton finished second for Ferrari ahead of Max Verstappen in third.
However, attention quickly shifted away from the podium celebrations when FIA officials launched further inspections into multiple cars after the race. Reports confirmed that one driver was ultimately removed from the final results following a breach of FIA regulations discovered during post-race checks.
The disqualification has triggered major frustration among teams and fans alike, particularly because the driver involved initially appeared to have secured a valuable points finish. The FIA’s ruling means several drivers behind now move up one position in the final standings.
Stewards were especially active throughout the Canadian GP weekend, with multiple penalties and investigations already handed out before the final decision. Liam Lawson was among the drivers investigated after an unusual formation-lap incident, eventually receiving an official reprimand from the FIA.
Additional post-race penalties were also issued elsewhere on the grid, highlighting how closely the FIA monitored technical and procedural compliance throughout the event. Valtteri Bottas was penalized for exceeding the pit-lane speed limit by just 0.1 km/h, while other drivers faced scrutiny for race procedure infringements.
The latest FIA decision is expected to increase pressure on teams ahead of the next round of the championship, especially as the 2026 title fight continues to intensify. Mercedes remain in strong form thanks to Antonelli’s dominant streak, while Ferrari and Red Bull continue to chase crucial points in both championships.
With tensions rising and FIA scrutiny becoming even stricter, the fallout from the Canadian Grand Prix may continue long after the teams leave Montreal.