Alpine racer Pierre Gasly faces disqualification at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix results
Following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Alpine driver Pierre Gasly was removed from the official results after a fuel regulation breach was confirmed by the governing bodies. The decision, posted on the Formula 1 site, states that Gasly’s car exceeded the allowed fuel flow or consumption on the final rapid lap of the second qualifying session. Gasly had qualified 13th, yet the disqualification means he starts from the back of the grid on race day. This outcome shifts the final standings for the event and adds an unexpected turn to a weekend already packed with drama, as explained by stewards and race organizers in the official notes.
Qualifying honors went to Charles Leclerc of Ferrari, who set the fastest time in the session with a lap of 1 minute 41.365 seconds. The performance highlighted Ferrari’s pace on the Baku circuit. Oscar Piastri for McLaren finished second, just 0.321 seconds behind the pole position, while Leclerc’s teammate Carlos Sainz claimed third place, 0.440 seconds behind Leclerc. The results underscored Ferrari’s speed and suggested how small margins can shape the upcoming race tactics.
McLaren’s Lando Norris, aiming for a strong showing, faced a difficult session and ended up in 17th place, 2.244 seconds off pole. The result demonstrates how a single day of practice and qualifying can upend form lines and force teams to rethink strategy ahead of the grand prix start.
Defending world champion Max Verstappen started the weekend in sixth place, 0.658 seconds behind pole. The Red Bull driver, who has claimed titles in the last three seasons, remains a central figure in championship discussions. His position reflects the ongoing balance of performance among teams and how evolving technical regulations influence race outcomes.
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix is slated to begin on September 15 at 14:00 Moscow time. Fans and teams are watching closely for tire strategy decisions, potential safety car periods, and how the disqualification might affect race-day tactics and pit-stop plans. With the penalty in place, competitors will re-evaluate their setups and approach to maximize performance within the updated field, while spectators assess the implications for the podium picture.
Earlier notes from the season referenced incidents at other circuits, including a serious accident at the Monaco Grand Prix involving multiple vehicles. That episode served as a sober reminder of the risks and high-stakes environment that drivers navigate throughout a demanding campaign.
— Attributions: Official Formula 1 site and FIA stewards communications provide the basis for the disqualification decision and the subsequent adjustments to the event’s results.