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Mercedes pulls Monaco appeal after Russell penalty

BBC Sport •
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Mercedes withdrew its appeal over the Monaco Grand Prix result that denied George Russell a podium. Russell earned a five‑second pit‑lane speeding penalty for exceeding the limit by 0.1 km/h, then missed serving it during a safety‑car period. When racing resumed, officials imposed a drive‑through penalty, sending him from third to out of the points.

The confusion began when Lance Stroll’s crash triggered the safety car, prompting Russell to pit for fresh tyres. He missed the chance to serve the five‑second sanction, and a subsequent red‑flag after Charles Leclerc’s crash gave the stewards time to issue the drive‑through. Mercedes argued the penalty chain was irregular but FIA rules limited their recourse.

Mercedes filed a right‑of‑review request at the Barcelona Grand Prix to preserve its position, then used the extended window to discuss the case with the FIA. After collaborative talks confirmed the drive‑through was correctly applied, the team concluded further action would not benefit the sport and formally withdrew the appeal.

Russell’s drop left Mercedes with 42 points, third in the Constructors’ table, while Ferrari and Red Bull moved ahead. The decision underscores FIA’s strict enforcement of penalty procedures and removes any immediate legal avenue for Mercedes to contest race results for the remainder of the season.