George Russell’s Canadian GP Victory Threatened After Protest

Red Bull has issued a formal protest following George Russell’s win at the 2025 Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix. Russell secured his fourth career victory for Mercedes in Montreal, holding off Max Verstappen of Red Bull, who finished second.

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The result came under safety car conditions after a late collision between McLaren teammates Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri scattered debris on the track. Kimi Antonelli took third place, achieving his first podium finish in Formula 1.

The controversy began during the race’s closing laps. As the field rode behind the safety car, Verstappen raised concerns about Russell’s driving.

He argued that Russell slowed down noticeably, causing Verstappen to overshoot at the entrance to the final chicane. Despite the tense moment, neither driver spoke publicly about the incident in their post-race interviews.

However, Red Bull acted later, bringing their case to the FIA race stewards. Both Russell and Verstappen, along with their teams, met with officials at 17:50 local time to discuss the situation.

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The exact reason behind the protest has not been shared, but it appears to focus on actions taken during the safety car period.

This win was especially significant for Russell, who delivered a strong performance from pole position. He called it his first victory since the Las Vegas race and credited his lap in qualifying for setting up the result.

The disappointment would be severe if the stewards decide in Red Bull’s favor, as Russell previously lost a win in Belgium last year due to technical problems. Verstappen, meanwhile, maintained pressure throughout the race but was unable to attempt a decisive pass due to the lack of racing laps at the end.

The 2025 Canadian Grand Prix saw added drama with the contact between the McLaren drivers, as Norris’ car left debris that forced officials to end the race without a green-flag finish. Teams and fans now await the final word from officials on whether Russell’s victory will stand or if the order will be changed.

The FIA stewards are expected to release their findings soon, bringing clarity to the outcome of a dramatic event.

Elsewhere on the grid, Kimi Antonelli impressed by stepping onto the podium in just his first season with Mercedes. The result marked another milestone for the young driver in a year filled with changes around the field.

With reports still coming in, more details should emerge as the stewards review data and statements from all involved. The Formula 1 community remains focused on Montreal, watching to see if George Russell can keep his latest trophy or if Red Bull’s protest will alter the final standings.