F1 SHOCKER: Bahrain Grand Prix 2025 Results Adjusted Amid Controversy After Disqualification
The 2025 Formula 1 season kicked off with a dramatic Bahrain Grand Prix on March 2, but the final results were only confirmed days later on April 13, following a series of penalties and disqualifications that shook the paddock. The most significant ruling saw Nico Hulkenberg of Sauber disqualified after post-race inspections revealed that his car’s skid plank was excessively worn, violating FIA technical regulations . This adjustment reshaped the race outcome, handing Lewis Hamilton a triumphant victory in his first race with Ferrari.
Hamilton, who crossed the line in a commanding position, secured 25 points to take an early lead in the drivers’ championship. Oscar Piastri of McLaren inherited second place with 18 points, while George Russell of Mercedes rounded out the podium with 15 points. Charles Leclerc, Hamilton’s Ferrari teammate, finished fourth, followed by reigning world champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull in a disappointing fifth, earning just 10 points. Pierre Gasly (Alpine) claimed sixth, marking a strong start for the French team, while Esteban Ocon (Haas) impressed in seventh after starting from P15. Yuki Tsunoda (Red Bull), Oliver Bearman (Haas), and Lando Norris (McLaren) completed the top ten, though Norris dropped to tenth after a 5-second penalty for a false start.
The disqualification of Hulkenberg wasn’t the only drama in Bahrain. Liam Lawson also faced penalties totaling 15 seconds for causing collisions with Lance Stroll and Hulkenberg, further altering the midfield standings. These post-race decisions sparked heated debates among fans and teams, with some questioning the consistency of FIA’s enforcement. McLaren, despite the penalty to Norris, maintained their lead in the constructors’ championship, but Ferrari closed the gap significantly thanks to Hamilton and Leclerc’s strong performances .
Hamilton’s victory marked a dream start to his Ferrari tenure, especially after a challenging final season with Mercedes in 2024. The seven-time world champion now leads the drivers’ standings with 25 points, followed by Piastri (18) and Russell (15). Verstappen, who struggled with Red Bull’s RB21 handling, finds himself 15 points behind Hamilton, setting the stage for a fierce battle as the season progresses. Meanwhile, McLaren’s lead in the constructors’ race remains precarious, with Ferrari and Red Bull hot on their heels.
The adjusted results have set the tone for a thrilling 2025 F1 season, with rivalries already simmering after just one race. Fans are now eagerly awaiting the next round, hoping for more on-track action and fewer post-race controversies. Will Hamilton maintain his momentum with Ferrari, or can Verstappen and Red Bull bounce back? And how will McLaren respond to the growing pressure from Ferrari? The Bahrain Grand Prix has proven that this season will be anything but predictable. What are your thoughts on the adjusted results? Share your opinions below
