In the aftermath of a dramatic Canadian Grand Prix, the FIA has officially dismissed Red Bull Racing’s protest against George Russell, confirming the Mercedes driver’s victory. The governing body released a statement late Sunday evening, putting an end to the speculation that had clouded the result in Montreal.
Red Bull’s Challenge
Red Bull lodged a formal protest shortly after the checkered flag, questioning the legality of Russell’s defensive maneuvers during the closing stages of the race. According to the team, Russell allegedly exceeded track limits while defending against Max Verstappen, gaining what they argued was a lasting advantage.
The protest immediately created a stir in the paddock, with both teams preparing for a lengthy deliberation. Red Bull insisted that the incident warranted a penalty, which could have dramatically altered the race result and potentially handed victory to Verstappen.
FIA’s Decision
However, after a thorough investigation that included reviewing on-board footage, telemetry data, and team radio communications, the FIA stewards ruled that no breach of the regulations occurred. Their statement read, in part:
“Having reviewed all available evidence, the Stewards have determined that George Russell did not gain a lasting advantage by exceeding track limits. His actions were within the acceptable limits of defensive driving as outlined in the FIA International Sporting Code. Therefore, Red Bull Racing’s protest is dismissed.”
The ruling means that Russell’s hard-fought win at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve remains intact — marking his first victory of the 2025 season and a significant boost for Mercedes.
Red Bull Responds
Speaking after the decision, Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner expressed his disappointment but accepted the stewards’ verdict.
“Of course, we believed we had a case, and that’s why we filed the protest,” Horner said. “But the FIA has made its decision, and we respect the outcome. Congratulations to George on his win. We’ll regroup and focus on the next race.”
Russell Relieved
For his part, George Russell welcomed the decision, insisting that he had full confidence in his driving throughout the race.
“I knew I was racing hard but fair,” Russell said. “I’m pleased the FIA saw it the same way. A huge thanks to the team for giving me a car capable of fighting for the win.
Title Race Implications
With Russell’s victory confirmed, the championship battle remains tight. Verstappen still leads the standings, but Mercedes’ resurgence adds new intrigue as the season progresses. The paddock now shifts its attention to the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix, where rivalries are sure to intensify once again.