F1 Driver Under Investigation by FIA for ‘Shocking’ Incident

The FIA has opened a case against an F1 driver following a shocking episode during the Monaco Grand Prix weekend.

Although the Monaco Grand Prix has yet to officially begin, the drama is already unfolding.

Lance Stroll’s weekend has become significantly more complicated, facing both a grid penalty and a potential further investigation after an incident in qualifying — an event Alpine driver Pierre Gasly has described as “shocking.”

Stroll has already received a one-place grid penalty for causing a collision with Charles Leclerc during the first free practice session.

The incident occurred at the chicane, where Stroll hit the Ferrari driver, earning himself a penalty point along with the grid drop. Fortunately, both drivers escaped without injury.

However, the bigger controversy arose during qualifying. On a cool-down lap through the tunnel, Stroll moved to the right in the braking zone at the Nouvelle Chicane.

Pierre Gasly, on a hot lap at high speed, was forced to abort his run due to Stroll’s maneuver, prompting a sharp reaction from the Frenchman.

Costly for Pierre Gasly

“Shocking,” said Gasly.

The incident ruined his lap and leaves him in a much worse position for Sunday’s race.

Stroll later explained he hadn’t seen Gasly approaching and had mistakenly thought it was Charles Leclerc behind him in the Ferrari.

Race stewards have confirmed the incident will be further investigated after qualifying, which could potentially lead to additional sanctions for Stroll.

Both drivers were eliminated in the first round of qualifying — Gasly finished 18th, and Stroll 19th. Due to his earlier penalty, Stroll will start at the very back in 20th place.

Ironically, Gasly moves up to 17th after Haas driver Oliver Bearman received a ten-place grid penalty for overtaking under a red flag during FP2.

The drama in Monte Carlo is already well underway, and with several investigations pending, the starting grid could see even more changes before Sunday’s race.