McLaren lodge notification of appeal against Gasly’s reinstated Monaco podium

McLaren have confirmed they have formally submitted a notification of appeal to Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA, after Pierre Gasly was reinstated to P3 in the Monaco Grand Prix.

The Frenchman crossed the line in third place but was initially demoted to seventh due to two separate five-second time penalties being added to his total race time, handing the podium to Red Bull’s Isack Hadjar.

Alpine then requested a Right of Review into the penalties, which was successful after the team presented new, significant and relevant evidence, with Gasly learning of the decision shortly before first practice began at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on Friday.

A number of drivers were also penalised for the same infringement of speeding in the pit lane, including McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, who served his penalty during the race in Monaco and ultimately placed P5. The Australian gained a position when Gasly was initially penalised, but was then classified back in his original fifth place following Gasly's reinstatement to third.

The Woking-based outfit have now revealed that they have started the process of appealing the verdict, with an official statement reading: “McLaren Racing can confirm that it has formally lodged a notification of appeal with the FIA International Court of Appeal regarding the following decisions related to the 2026 Monaco Grand Prix: Stewards Document 99; Revised Final Race Classification Document 100; Revised Championship Points Document 101.

“While we fully respect the FIA’s judicial processes and the role of the Stewards, we believe this case raises important questions concerning sporting fairness, regulatory consistency and the integrity of competition.

“Throughout the Monaco Grand Prix weekend – and in every event – all teams operated according to the regulations and established standard practices for what concerns the speed limit in the pit lane as they were applied at the time. Competitors adjusted their procedures accordingly and, where required, accepted and served penalties imposed under those regulations.

“In our view, the subsequent removal of penalties creates a situation in which some competitors are disadvantaged by having acted in accordance with the rules and the Stewards’ decisions. Such an outcome risks creating sporting inequity and undermining confidence in the consistent application of the FIA Sporting Regulations.

“Our decision to appeal is not directed at any competitor. Rather, it reflects our belief that the Championship benefits from regulations that are applied consistently, transparently and fairly to all participants.

“McLaren remains committed to working constructively with the FIA, Formula One and fellow competitors to protect the integrity of the sport and maintain confidence in its regulatory framework.”