Verstappen Breaks Silence on Saudi Penalty, Criticizes Stewards and FIA: “People Can’t Handle….read more
Max Verstappen expressed frustration after receiving a five-second penalty during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which he believes cost him the race win. The penalty was issued for leaving the track and gaining an advantage during a first-corner battle with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri. Although Verstappen led the early stages of the race, he lost the lead after serving the penalty during a pit stop and couldn’t reclaim it, resulting in Piastri taking the victory.
The Red Bull driver chose not to go into detail about his disagreement with the penalty, citing concerns over possible repercussions from Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA. He explained that criticizing the FIA or even expressing frustration could lead to penalties under new rules introduced during the offseason. Verstappen said, “You can’t share your opinion because it’s not appreciated… It’s better if I don’t say too much.”
These new FIA rules, driven by president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, include potential penalties for drivers who swear publicly or criticize the organization. Offenses can lead to championship point deductions or even race bans. Verstappen previously faced disciplinary action for swearing in a press conference, as did Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.
In Jeddah, Verstappen made it clear he felt restricted in what he could say, noting that speaking openly might be misinterpreted or get him in trouble. He commented on the growing sensitivity in the sport and social media, emphasizing that it’s safer for drivers to stay quiet.
During the race, Verstappen’s radio messages hinted at his dissatisfaction with the penalty, though he was advised to keep his opinions private. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner also questioned the decision, calling the penalty “very harsh” and lamenting the apparent abandonment of the “let them race” philosophy, especially on the opening lap.
The stewards clarified that while the typical penalty for gaining an advantage off-track is 10 seconds, it was reduced to five since the incident occurred on the first lap. The penalty was given because Verstappen cut the chicane at the start, keeping his lead despite Piastri being fully alongside him going into the first corner.
F1’s driving standards state that if a car is sufficiently alongside on the inside and remains under control within track limits, the driver has rights to the corner. The stewards determined that Piastri met all these conditions. Piastri believed the decision was fair and stated he was confident he had enough of his car alongside Verstappen to claim the corner.
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella echoed the stewards’ decision, saying it was a straightforward case and shouldn’t spark controversy. After serving his penalty, Verstappen fell behind Piastri, who took advantage of clean air to maintain his lead and secure his third win in five races.
Despite Verstappen’s strong pace early on, Piastri’s timely pit stop and decisive move on Lewis Hamilton helped him control the race and seal a hard-fought win.
