BREAKING: Russell penalized in Bahrain! Leclerc moves up to second place

Shock at the Bahrain International Circuit: George Russell has been handed a three-place grid penalty, promoting Charles Leclerc to second on the grid. Kimi Antonelli has also been penalized.

Twist ahead of tomorrow’s Bahrain GP: both George Russell and Kimi Antonelli have been dropped one place on the starting grid. As a result, Pierre Gasly and especially Charles Leclerc benefit—Leclerc will now line up on the front row next to the pole-sitter.

The penalty for the two Mercedes drivers stems from a violation of Article 12.2.1 i of the International Sporting Code: Russell and Antonelli entered the pit lane before the session restart time was officially confirmed, following the earlier red flag caused by Esteban Ocon’s crash.

A costly mistake for the Brackley team, one that could impact their race strategy. Meanwhile, Leclerc gladly takes the opportunity to start from a prime position and aim straight for a big result.

Photo: Mercedes