Verstappen Cleared as FIA Closes Investigation After Heated Sainz Incident in Hungary
Max Verstappen has been cleared of any wrongdoing after the FIA completed its investigation into a tense on-track incident involving Carlos Sainz during the opening free practice session of the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix. The decision means the reigning Formula 1 champion will continue his race weekend without any disciplinary action despite briefly coming under scrutiny following the dramatic exchange.
The incident unfolded during Friday’s first practice session at the Hungaroring, where Verstappen was pushing on a fast lap. As the Dutch driver approached at speed, he encountered Williams driver Carlos Sainz travelling slowly on the racing line. The unexpected obstruction forced Verstappen to take evasive action, ruining his lap and prompting an immediate outburst over the team radio. Television cameras also caught the Red Bull star gesturing in frustration as he drove past the Spaniard.
Race stewards initially turned their attention to Sainz, who was summoned to explain why he had remained on the racing line. The Spanish driver revealed that he had temporarily lost radio communication with his team, leaving him unaware that Verstappen was rapidly approaching from behind. While officials acknowledged the communication issue, they ruled that it did not excuse his positioning on the circuit. Drivers are expected to avoid slowing on the racing line regardless of radio problems, and Sainz was issued an official warning for impeding another competitor.
However, the incident did not end there. Shortly after overtaking the Williams driver, Verstappen appeared to slow down and brake in front of Sainz as they approached Turn 12. The manoeuvre sparked speculation that the Red Bull driver had intentionally responded to the earlier obstruction, leading the FIA to launch a separate investigation into possible erratic driving.
Following the session, race stewards carefully examined multiple pieces of evidence, including onboard footage, circuit video, telemetry data and statements from both drivers. After reviewing the circumstances in full, officials concluded that Verstappen’s actions did not breach the sporting regulations and were not severe enough to justify any punishment.
The verdict represents a positive outcome for the four-time world champion, who arrived in Hungary aiming to build on the encouraging progress Red Bull displayed at the Belgian Grand Prix. Although Verstappen is still chasing his first Grand Prix victory of the 2026 campaign, recent developments to the RB22 have significantly improved the car’s competitiveness, giving the team renewed confidence heading into the second half of the season.
With the FIA’s investigations now complete, the matter has been officially closed. Sainz escapes with only a formal warning for impeding, while Verstappen has been fully cleared of the allegation of erratic driving. As a result, both drivers can now focus entirely on the remainder of the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend, with no further disciplinary consequences hanging over them.
