F1 to refine pitlane timing after Monaco speed penalty controversy

Formula 1 Management has pledged to introduce any necessary improvements or refinements after a Monaco Grand Prix pitlane timing discrepancy led to several drivers being wrongly penalised for speeding.

Timing discrepancy exposed at Monaco

Evidence supplied by Formula 1 Management, which is responsible for F1 timekeeping, showed that a measurement discrepancy affected how pitlane speeds were calculated at the entry to Monaco’s distinctive pitlane. Gasly and four other drivers were incorrectly found to have exceeded the 60km/h limit and were therefore wrongly penalised.

That change meant the average speed of cars was calculated using a distance up to 77cm shorter than the calibrated distance across the first of nine pitlane timing loops. The result was an overestimation of the cars’ actual speed.

FOM said: “As part of the right of review process relating to Monaco, we have proactively assisted the FIA in gathering all the relevant information to help inform the steward’s assessments.”

It added: “We measured the relevant areas in the pitlane identically to the 2025 event and followed procedures in the usual way. However, the process has identified a measurement discrepancy. Like everyone in the sport we strive for the best results and, as always, any improvements or refinements that are identified as being required in light of this situation will be implemented.”

Russell hit hardest by penalty fallout

George Russell was the most severely affected by the timing error. His five-second penalty disrupted his podium chase, and the situation worsened when he failed to serve it at his next pitstop because of a team communication error. That triggered a drive-through penalty and dropped him out of the points.

The episode has also prompted differing views inside the paddock. Some teams believe responsibility still sits partly with competitors to leave enough pitlane margin based on free practice data. Haas team boss Ayao Komatsu pointed out that most of the 22-car field completed the race without alleged speeding violations.

For F1, the priority now is clear: ensure Monaco’s pitlane timing procedures are robust enough that a small layout-related discrepancy cannot again have such a large competitive consequence.