The final practice session at the Canadian Grand Prix was full of drama and today’s result could have a big impact on the race. Yuki Tsunoda was given a 10-place grid penalty for overtaking during a red flag, raising questions about safety and rules in Formula 1.
What Happened During Practice?
During FP3 at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, the session was stopped because Nico Hulkenberg crashed into the barrier at the Wall of Champions, and Oscar Piastri also hit the wall, causing debris and a puncture. Once the track was cleared, the session resumed, but Tsunoda’s actions during the red flag caused an investigation.
Before the restart, Tsunoda was seen overtaking Piastri, who was moving slowly due to damage. The stewards scrutinized the event using telemetry data, which showed Piastri at 86 km/h and Tsunoda at 171 km/h when the overtake happened. The rules clearly forbid overtaking during a red flag for safety reasons, leading to Tsunoda’s penalty.
The stewards decided that Tsunoda’s overtake was unjustified, especially because Piastri wasn’t moving fast enough to justify the risk. This is similar to a penalty that was given earlier this season to another driver for a similar incident. Tsunoda accepted the penalty, but it means he will start from the back of the grid for Sunday’s race.
What Does This Mean for Tsunoda and the Race?
The penalty will make Tsunoda’s task in the race more difficult. Starting from the back is tough, especially on a demanding and unpredictable circuit like Montreal. Tsunoda’s performance in qualifying was affected by previous issues, but this penalty adds extra pressure to have a strong race.
Despite the setback, Tsunoda remains determined to race hard and try to move forward. The incident underlines the importance of following safety procedures, as overtaking during a red flag can be dangerous. The FIA is strict about enforcing these rules to protect drivers and teams.
Fans are eager to see how Tsunoda will perform in the race, and his desire to compete and improve is clear. The Canadian GP’s challenging conditions and tight schedule could lead to exciting moments and surprises, as drivers race to earn valuable points. Tsunoda’s handling of the situation will be watched closely, and many hope he can recover from the penalty and deliver a strong result.
Overall, this incident shows that in Formula 1, rules are taken seriously, and safety is always the top priority. Tsunoda’s penalty may be tough, but it emphasizes the sport’s commitment to safety and fair competition. Fans, drivers, and teams will all be hoping for an exciting race where skill and strategy come together on the track in Montreal.
