Gasly condemns 'completely inappropriate' online abuse after Colapinto team order saga

Pierre Gasly has revealed that he and his family were subjected to 'completely inappropriate' online abuse following the team order flashpoint at the Spanish Grand Prix, where Franco Colapinto repeatedly asked to be moved ahead of him.

Why it matters:

The backlash highlights a growing problem in Formula 1, where drivers and their families face increasing online harassment. Gasly's comments underscore how criticism can cross into personal attacks, raising questions about the sport's duty to protect its athletes.

The details:

• The flashpoint came as Gasly, running the entire race on hard tyres, was about to make his sole pit stop. Colapinto, chasing McLaren's Oscar Piastri, demanded a swap over the radio, using expletives as he feared losing time.
• Colapinto finished ahead of Piastri in P7, and Gasly confirmed the situation was 'discussed with the team' and 'all clear.'
• Gasly told PlanetF1.com: 'I'm a top athlete, so I know I'm exposed. But to that extent of threat, attacks, I find it completely inappropriate, especially when it reaches out to family members... There is a certain line that should not be crossed just because you're behind the screen and a keyboard.'
• Colapinto acknowledged the abuse was 'not good,' and referenced past incidents, including the racist abuse Yuki Tsunoda received after a 2025 Imola practice incident. He called for fans to take more care with their words.

What's next:

Both drivers said the team has learned from the situation. Colapinto stressed the importance of improving communication to avoid a repeat, while Gasly hopes F1 can find a way to become 'a healthier place' for everyone involved.