Audi appeals stewards' decision in Tsunoda aborted start case

Audi has lodged an appeal against the Italian Grand Prix stewards' decision not to penalize Yuki Tsunoda for his grid slot error at the first planned restart, a ruling that could directly impact the points classification.

Why it matters:

The appeal centers on Article B5.9.4 of F1's sporting regulations, which requires any driver who causes an additional formation lap to start from the pitlane. If Audi succeeds, Tsunoda's 10th-place finish would become a 30-second post-race penalty, dropping him to 15th and promoting Gabriel Bortoleto into the points.

The details:

• Tsunoda, due to start 14th, initially aimed for the 15th grid slot before veering right and stopping in his correct position, though at a slight angle toward the pitwall.
• Race director Rui Marques initiated another formation lap, stating he was "not comfortable starting the race with the car in that position."
• Racing Bulls successfully argued that Tsunoda's front tyres remained within the grid box, no other driver was affected, and Tsunoda was not the "cause" of the extra formation lap.
• The stewards concluded the additional lap "resulted from the race director's assessment of the situation" and declined to apply a stop-and-go penalty.

What's next:

Audi, which raised its concern immediately after the race, has formally notified its intention to appeal. The hearing will determine whether Tsunoda retains his point or Bortoleto inherits it — a decision that could carry significant weight in the constructors' battle.