The world of Formula 1 is abuzz as two of its top drivers face an unnerving predicament. Charles Leclerc and Pierre Gasly have found themselves in the crosshairs of controversy after their cars were discovered to be underweight upon the completion of the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai. This breach of regulations could potentially see both drivers disqualified, resulting in a seismic shift in the standings.
Leclerc, who remarkably managed to secure a fifth-place finish despite significant front wing damage, and Gasly, who ended up just outside the points in 11th place, are now under the microscope. The post-race inspection brought to light a shocking revelation: both their cars tipped the scales at 799kg, a kilogram shy of the minimum 800kg weight limit set by the FIA.
Jo Bauer, the FIA’s technical delegate, highlighted this discrepancy in his report. He noted that Leclerc’s car was weighed twice, the first time with a damaged front wing and the second with an official replacement. Despite the replacement wing being 0.2kg heavier, the car’s weight fell back to 799kg after two liters of fuel were drained from it.
The same scenario played out with Gasly’s Alpine, which also fell short of the weight limit after a similar fuel drainage process. After 1.1kg of fuel was removed, Gasly’s car, too, weighed in at 799kg.
In light of these findings, the FIA report ominously concluded, “As this is 1.0 kg below the minimum weight requested in TR Article 4.1, which also has to be respected at all times during the Competition, I am referring this matter to the Stewards for their consideration.”
The Stewards’ decision could significantly alter the race results if they choose to disqualify both drivers. Lance Stroll of Aston Martin could be the biggest beneficiary of this situation, as he could potentially move up from 12th to 10th place, securing a coveted points finish.
The ongoing investigation has added a touch of intrigue to what has already been a fiercely contested 2025 season. If the disqualifications are indeed confirmed, Ferrari, and Alpine are expected to challenge the findings, adding to the high-stakes drama that defines the world of Formula 1.