F1 Academy’s Race 1 in Montreal delivered an electrifying spectacle, but the drama did not end at the chequered flag as following the race, several penalties were issued, reshaping both the results and the starting grid for Race 2.
Felbermayr disqualified for underweight car
Emma Felbermayr’s podium finish was short-lived. Post-race scrutineering revealed that her #5 Kick Sauber entry failed to meet the minimum weight requirement. The car registered a consistent 602.6kg during the weighing process—just below the mandated 603kg.
As a result, the Stewards disqualified Felbermayr from the results of Race 1, stripping her of a well-earned third-place finish. This disqualification will have serious implications for her championship standings and momentum heading into Race 2.
Palmowski penalised for collision with Chambers
Alisha Palmowski also came under scrutiny after an incident at Turn 1 involving teammate Chloe Chambers. The Red Bull Racing driver launched over the kerb and made wheel-to-wheel contact, which unsettled her car and caused further contact with Chambers’ front wing.
Although both drivers managed to continue, the Stewards held Palmowski responsible for the collision. Consequently, they awarded her a 10-second time penalty, dropping her down the order in the final classification.
Ferreira handed grid penalty for unsafe rejoin
Rafaela Ferreira will start Race 2 on the back foot after receiving a five-place grid penalty. The Racing Bulls driver rejoined the track unsafely at Turn 9, colliding with Chloe Chong in the process. Both drivers failed to finish the race due to the incident.
The Stewards deemed Ferreira wholly at fault for the collision and imposed a grid drop for the next race she contests. Originally classified P9, she will now line up 14th for Race 2.
Changing fortunes ahead of Race 2
These penalties arrive on the heels of a chaotic F1 Academy Race 1 in Montreal that had already seen title contenders suffer. Maya Weug, the championship leader going into the event, endured multiple mechanical issues and eventually retired. Meanwhile, Chloe Chambers—who had started from pole—fell down the order due to front wing damage and later received a black and orange flag.
Amid the turmoil, Doriane Pin remained composed, taking a commanding win and claiming the championship lead. With Felbermayr out of the results and Ferreira and Palmowski penalised, the grid for Race 2 looks drastically different.
