Max Verstappen sends apology after pulling out of Event
Max Verstappen has issued a public apology after being forced to withdraw from two high-profile end-of-season commitments, with illness preventing the Red Bull driver from attending both a major sim racing finale and the FIA’s official prize-giving ceremony.
The four-time Formula 1 world champion was scheduled to appear at the Gamergy Heineken 0.0 Sim Racing World Final in Madrid on Saturday, an event that brings together some of the best virtual racers from around the world. However, Verstappen was ultimately unable to travel after falling unwell, prompting the Dutchman to pull out at short notice.
In a message shared with organisers and fans, Verstappen expressed his disappointment at missing the event, stressing that he had been looking forward to taking part. The Red Bull driver is well known for his passion for sim racing, regularly competing online and running his own successful sim racing team alongside his F1 career. His presence at the Madrid finale had been one of the main attractions of the event, making his absence particularly disappointing for fans in attendance.
Verstappen’s illness has also affected his plans to attend the FIA prize-giving gala, which is being held this year in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The annual ceremony marks the official conclusion of the motorsport season and sees champions and top performers from across FIA-sanctioned series receive their trophies. Verstappen had been expected to collect his runners-up award following the conclusion of the 2025 Formula 1 season.
The Dutchman finished second in the drivers’ standings this year after a fiercely competitive campaign that went down to the final race in Abu Dhabi. Despite winning the season finale, Verstappen narrowly missed out on a fifth consecutive world title, with McLaren’s Lando Norris emerging as champion by a slim points margin. While Verstappen’s season did not end with another championship, his performances throughout the year were widely praised, particularly given Red Bull’s fluctuating competitiveness.
His absence from the FIA gala has inevitably drawn attention, especially as attendance at the ceremony is traditionally expected from drivers finishing at the top of the championship. However, Verstappen’s situation appears to be driven purely by health concerns, with no indication of protest or dissatisfaction with the outcome of the season.
This is not the first time Verstappen has been unable to attend an FIA awards ceremony. In previous years, scheduling conflicts and personal commitments have also led to him missing similar events, though the governing body generally treats such cases on an individual basis. Whether any formal action will be taken remains unclear, but Verstappen’s proactive apology may help ease tensions.
Red Bull have offered no detailed update on the nature of Verstappen’s illness, though sources close to the team suggest it is not considered serious. The priority, according to those within the camp, is ensuring the driver recovers fully ahead of the winter break and the intense preparation period leading into the 2026 season.
Verstappen’s withdrawal from the sim racing final further highlights the balancing act he continues to manage between real-world motorsport and his digital racing commitments. Despite his demanding F1 schedule, the Dutchman has remained deeply involved in sim racing, often competing online late into the night and mentoring young virtual drivers through his Team Redline organisation.
Fans have largely responded with understanding, offering well wishes and praising Verstappen for taking the time to personally apologise despite his illness. Many noted that his commitment to both professional racing and esports has been unwavering, making his absence all the more unfortunate rather than controversial.
As the Formula 1 paddock heads into the off-season, Verstappen’s focus will now turn to recovery and reflection after a demanding year. While missing the gala and sim racing final is a disappointment, the Red Bull star is expected to return refreshed and motivated as he looks to reclaim the world championship crown next season.
For now, Verstappen’s message is a simple one: regret at missing key events, gratitude for the support he continues to receive, and a clear intent to come back stronger once fully fit.
