James Vowles, the team principal of Williams, has declared his support for McLaren and Red Bull as they prepare to lodge appeals following the FIA’s decision to restore Pierre Gasly’s podium finish at the Monaco Grand Prix.
Reinstated Podium Sparks Appeals
During the Monaco race, a number of drivers obtained penalties for exceeding pit‑lane speed limits. While most served their time on track, Gasly’s penalty was added to his total afterwards. Alpine invoked a Right of Review and supplied fresh evidence to the FIA, proving Gasly had not violated the speed limit. The stewards accepted the evidence, and Gasly’s podium position was reinstated.
McLaren and Red Bull have both signaled an intent to appeal the decision, and Mercedes has confirmed it is consulting legal counsel. The reversal is now a key point of contention for teams with podium ambitions.
Williams’ Perspective on the Controversy
Vowles expressed surprise at the reinstatement, noting it “creates a bit of a mess.” The team principal highlighted the impact on teammates George Russell and Oscar Piastri, who would also have been contenders for the podium in that scenario. “That’s the mess I don’t feel comfortable about,” Vowles remarked, adding that he would “for good reason” support McLaren and Red Bull in any formal appeal.
Current Standings and Team Dynamics
In Barcelona‑Catalunya’s third practice session, Alex Albon secured another four points for Williams with an eighth‑place finish. Simultaneously, Carlos Sainz retired after colliding first with Nico Hulkenberg and later with Franco Colapinto.
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