F1 set to debate new rule change after Canadian GP controversy. F1 teams may face new protest limits after Red Bull's complaint against George Russell.

A potential rule change is under discussion in F1 after an incident following the Canadian GP sparked debate.

At the end of the Canadian Grand Prix, an episode unfolded that triggered strong reactions inside the paddock. Red Bull filed a protest over George Russell’s behavior under the Safety Car. The British driver braked sharply, and the Milton Keynes team interpreted it as an attempt to cause a penalty for Max Verstappen, who had overtaken him. This episode has led to talks of a possible rule change that could affect F1 teams.

Red Bull’s protest delayed the final classification decision, with the case only being closed five hours after the chequered flag. Christian Horner’s action prompted a reaction from Mercedes. Toto Wolff summarized his stance by saying: “It’s right to protest, but some of these situations aren’t real. There are things worth protesting and others that are just a gamble.”

How the rules might change
According to Motorsport.com, various proposals are being considered to address this issue. Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has suggested increasing the cost of filing a protest, which currently stands at €2,000. The current fee is seen as too low considering the teams’ financial resources.

A second proposal involves adopting a system similar to one used in tennis. This would limit the number of protests each team can file during a season. The goal would be to ensure only significant incidents are contested—those that could actually change the outcome of a Grand Prix.

The entire matter will be discussed at the next F1 Commission meeting, scheduled for July 22, the day before the Belgian Grand Prix. The idea of setting a maximum number of protests appears to clash with the preferences of teams, which favor the current system.