Chaos Ruled the Canadian Grand Prix

An unpredictable Canadian Grand Prix spiraled from a chaotic start into internal conflict, mechanical drama, and a late fight between champions. While veterans battled for the podium, Formula 1’s next generation continued to reshape the season. 

(Image credit to @redbullracing)

Chaos Before Racing Even Began

The final race of May in this Formula 1 season took place this weekend at the circuit in Montreal, Canada. Both Mercedes and McLaren had excellent launches off the grid, occupying the first two rows. Statistics predicted unfavorable weather conditions, which led some teams to opt for intermediate tyres, while the majority of drivers started on softs and only a few on mediums.The opening moments were unexpected to say the least. After the five lights came on, there appeared to be an issue with them going out, as the delay lasted longer than it should have, causing several drivers to effectively “jump” the start. The drivers were sent into another formation lap, while Lindblad’s car had to be pushed off the track after failing to restart.

The recovery process proved difficult and time-consuming, lasting so long that by the time the leading cars returned to the grid, their tyres had already cooled down, forcing yet another formation lap. As the saying goes — third time’s the charm.

When the race finally started, Norris made an excellent launch, though not entirely efficient in the long run. Running on intermediate tyres, he managed to steal first place immediately, while Russell, who had started in the lead, was more focused on keeping Antonelli behind him. Hamilton gained a position ahead of Piastri, who pitted at the end of the opening lap to switch to intermediate wet tyres as well, allowing Verstappen to move up to P5.

Aggression Builds Across the Grid

There appears to be a growing rivalry between the Mercedes drivers this season, a feeling reinforced by the aggressive behavior shown by both Russell and Antonelli throughout qualifying, the sprint, and the race itself. The two fought intensely for track position and victory, engaging in so-called yo-yo overtakes that nearly caused Hamilton to collide with Russell on Lap 7.

Although Verstappen briefly lost time after locking up under braking, he still managed to pass Hamilton following minor issues with the Ferrari. Hamilton could be heard over team radio saying, “I’ve got no power, come on guys!” Verstappen was not the only driver struggling under braking. Youngster Bearman experienced the same issue and was overtaken by both Gasly and Norris, the latter having just exited the pits on Lap 12 at Turn 10.

Piastri attempted a double overtake, but the move proved disastrous. He collided with Albon, who was eventually forced to retire from the race. The Australian driver received a ten-second penalty for the incident, while Norris later retired due to reliability problems with his car.

(Image credit to racingnews365.com))

Mercedes Drama Changes the Race

The tension inside the Mercedes garage only escalated as the race progressed. Russell and Antonelli continued battling until Lap 23, when a delayed backmarker forced Russell to slow down, triggering a change in the lead.

Two laps later, Antonelli locked up under braking and made contact with Russell, who briefly regained first place before losing it again as the young Italian fought back through. Although the overtake itself was legal, Antonelli was instructed by the team to give the position back, restoring Russell to the lead.

That advantage lasted only briefly. On Lap 30, Russell’s gearbox failed completely, bringing out the Virtual Safety Car and allowing Antonelli to reclaim first place once more.

During the Safety Car period, every driver came in for fresh tyres. Ferrari attempted a double stack because their drivers were running close together on track, but the strategy cost Leclerc a position to Hadjar after an aggressive exchange that nearly sent the Ferrari into the wall.

(Image credit to @mercedesamgf1)

A Veteran Duel Ends the Weekend

If the first half of the race belonged to Mercedes drama, the second half delivered a classic duel between two established stars of the sport.

Verstappen and Hamilton kept both the grandstands and viewers at home on edge in the battle for P2. Verstappen defended brilliantly and managed to keep Hamilton behind for several laps, though never comfortably clear of the Briton.

Everything changed on Lap 62, when Hamilton finally completed the overtake and secured second place on the podium.

Antonelli, however, remained untouchable at the front and set yet another record by winning four consecutive races in a single season. The race also marked an important success for Colapinto, who finished sixth and helped Alpine secure a total of twelve points from the weekend.

Article written by Iuliana Mihai © Iuliana Mihai 2026