FIA Reinstates Pierre Gasly Penalty as Alpine Accuses Judge of Conflict of Interest

The FIA International Court of Appeal has reinstated a pit lane speeding penalty for Alpine driver Pierre Gasly during the Monaco Grand Prix. This decision removes Gasly from the podium and restores the third place finish to Isack Hadjar of Racing Bulls. The penalty had previously been overturned following an appeal by Alpine, but it was reinstated after a counter appeal by Racing Bulls and McLaren.

Following the announcement, Alpine team leader Flavio Briatore sparked a controversy during a joint press conference with other team principals. Briatore accused one of the judges, Filippo Marchino, of having a close relationship with McLaren. He claimed that Marchino had given a speech for McLaren in 2018 and that McLaren had donated cars to a foundation associated with the judge. Briatore described the judge's behavior during the hearing as unpleasant and acting like a prosecutor.

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella responded to the accusations by stating that the current moment was not appropriate to discuss such claims. Stella emphasized that McLaren celebrated the decision because it provided necessary clarity on the application of sporting equality and equity rules. He noted that the appeal was supported by all teams during the hearing. While Alpine expressed disappointment and frustration in an official statement, the team confirmed it would abide by the court's ruling.