Jobaaj Stories
Ferrari Disqualified: Double Blow at Chinese Grand Prix
The 2025 Chinese Grand Prix ended in disaster for Ferrari. Both Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, driving for the Scuderia, were disqualified following post-race technical inspections. This shocking outcome, just two races into the season, leaves Ferrari reeling and raises serious questions about the team's preparedness.
Technical Infractions Lead to Disqualification
Leclerc's car was found to be underweight, weighing in at 799kg – 1kg below the minimum 800kg requirement. Hamilton's car failed the skid block wear test, with measurements below the mandated 9mm thickness. This isn't the first time Hamilton has faced this issue; he was disqualified from the 2023 US Grand Prix for the same infraction while driving for Mercedes. Alpine's Pierre Gasly also suffered disqualification for an underweight car.
Ferrari's Response and the Fallout
Ferrari admitted to mistakes, stating there was no intention to gain an unfair advantage. The team attributed Leclerc's underweight car to a one-stop strategy leading to excessive tire wear. Hamilton's skid block issue resulted from a miscalculation of wear rates. The disqualification cost Ferrari 18 valuable championship points, dropping them down the standings. Meanwhile, the controversy over selective broadcasting of team radio messages further added to the team's woes.
A Challenging Start to the Season
The Chinese Grand Prix debacle follows a disappointing start to the season for Ferrari. While Hamilton secured a sprint race victory, the main race's outcome underlines the team's ongoing struggles with technical compliance and race strategy. The disqualification overshadows the impressive victory of McLaren's Oscar Piastri, who dominated the race from pole to finish line.
Looking Ahead
Ferrari faces intense pressure to rectify their issues before the Japanese Grand Prix. The team needs to address the underlying problems causing these repeated technical infringements. This double disqualification serves as a harsh lesson, highlighting the importance of meticulous attention to detail in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.
