Monaco Grand Prix Halted After Major Crash on Opening Lap
Perez, Magnussen, and Hulkenberg Involved in Collision
The Monaco Grand Prix was brought to an abrupt halt during the opening lap following a significant crash involving Formula One drivers Sergio Perez and Kevin Magnussen. Nico Hulkenberg, Magnussen's teammate at Haas, was also caught up in the incident. Fortunately, all three drivers emerged unscathed from the collision.
Crash Details and Immediate Impact
Sergio Perez, starting from 16th on the grid, collided with Kevin Magnussen's Haas. The crash occurred when Magnussen's front-left wheel made contact with the rear-right of Perez's Red Bull. The impact was severe, with Perez's car suffering extensive damage, losing all but one of its wheels.
Despite the dramatic nature of the crash, Perez did not need medical attention. However, the debris scattered across the track necessitated a suspension of the race.
Stewards' Decision and Race Restart
After reviewing the first-lap incident, the stewards determined that no further investigation was required. The race was subsequently restarted a short time later. Magnussen commented on the incident to Sky Sports, stating, "From my point of view, I was there and I got squeezed to the wall."
Other Incidents on the Opening Lap
The opening lap also saw other collisions. Ferrari's Carlos Sainz and McLaren's Oscar Piastri made contact, resulting in a puncture for Sainz. The stewards reviewed this incident as well and cleared Sainz of causing the collision.
Meanwhile, Esteban Ocon received a 10-second penalty for causing a collision with his Alpine teammate Pierre Gasly. Ocon retired from the race, and the penalty may be converted to a future race penalty.
Final Outcome
The race concluded with Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc taking the victory, providing a dramatic end to an eventful Monaco Grand Prix.
