Russell’s Canadian Grand Prix Victory Upholds After Red Bull Protest Dismissed
George Russell’s victory in the Canadian Grand Prix has been officially confirmed following the dismissal of a protest filed by Red Bull Racing. The protest was resolved nearly six hours after the race concluded.
Red Bull’s protest centered on two main points. Firstly, they alleged Russell drove erratically behind the safety car, specifically mentioning a significant braking maneuver on the back straight that allowed Max Verstappen to pull ahead. Russell’s braking was called into question, with Red Bull suggesting it was unnecessary and indicative of “unsportsmanlike intent.” The second claim focused on Russell allegedly creating excessive distance behind the safety car as it exited the pit lane during caution periods, although this aspect was later withdrawn.
In defense, Mercedes and Russell argued that braking to maintain tire and brake temperature is standard practice, as corroborated by Verstappen’s similar behavior in prior laps. They contended that the radio communication was merely factual and not an indication of complaints meant to instigate an investigation.
Race control had previously assessed Russell’s conduct and deemed it non-problematic, leading the stewards to reject Red Bull’s protest. In their ruling, they stated: "We accept the driver of Car No. 63’s explanation of the incident and are satisfied that he did not drive erratically or engage in unsportsmanlike conduct."
As a result, George Russell remains the official winner of the Canadian Grand Prix, with Max Verstappen finishing in second place.
