The Aston Martin team was sanctioned by the FIA after an unsafe release involving Fernando Alonso during Q1 of the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix.
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The incident occurred at the start of qualifying in Montreal, on the Gilles Villeneuve circuit, when Fernando Alonso was released into the pit lane just as another single-seater was arriving at full speed.
The two-time world champion thus found himself directly in the path of the Alpine car driven by Franco Colapinto, causing a potentially dangerous situation and an immediate evasive maneuver.
An unequivocal stewards’ investigation
After the session, the stewards quickly opened an investigation to analyze onboard footage and pit lane videos. The verdict left no doubt: it was indeed a dangerous release.
“It was obvious that car 43 had to move aside and lock the front wheels to avoid a collision with car 14” states the official stewards’ document.
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This situation was classified as an unsafe release, confirming the team’s responsibility in managing traffic when exiting the pit.
A fine for Aston Martin, a complicated weekend
Aston Martin ultimately received a fine of 5,000 euros, a financial penalty that adds to an already difficult weekend on the sporting front.
Fernando Alonso, who finished the session in 19th position, was unable to fully exploit his potential in a session already disrupted by several incidents.
Meanwhile, Lance Stroll was also summoned by the stewards for two other separate situations during qualifying, confirming a particularly chaotic Saturday for the Silverstone team.
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