FIA Clears Lewis Hamilton in Canada Sprint Investigation, Explains Hulkenberg Penalty Disparity

Lewis Hamilton has been cleared by the FIA after a late-race investigation at the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix Sprint.

The stewards determined Hamilton did not gain a lasting advantage when he left the track at the final chicane while battling Oscar Piastri and Charles Leclerc. The decision contrasts sharply with a 10-second penalty handed to Nico Hulkenberg earlier in the same session for a similar infraction.

Why it matters:

The verdict reinforces the FIA's nuanced approach to track limits and overtaking rules. Hamilton's case was deemed different because Piastri was not in an overtaking position when Hamilton rejoined, whereas Hulkenberg's move denied Liam Lawson a clear pass. Consistency in such rulings is critical as drivers push limits in close quarters.

The details:

• Hamilton's incident: On the final lap, Hamilton left the track at Turn 13, drove through the chicane, and rejoined ahead of Piastri. However, Piastri was not alongside at the moment of rejoining, so no lasting advantage was gained.
• Hulkenberg's penalty: Earlier, Hulkenberg left the track to keep Lawson behind. Lawson had an overtaking opportunity, making it a defensive move that gained an unfair advantage.
• Sprint result: George Russell won ahead of Lando Norris and Kimi Antonelli, with the Mercedes teammates showing early-season tension.

What's next:

With Hamilton free to focus on the Grand Prix, Ferrari will hope to convert Sprint pace into a stronger Sunday result. The clarity from the stewards also provides a reference point for future battles, especially as the championship fight tightens.

• The decision avoids any penalty points or grid drops for Hamilton, keeping his title campaign on track.
• Audi's Hulkenberg will serve his penalty on Sunday, potentially costing him points in a tight midfield.