Red Bull Prepares for Possible Verstappen Suspension After Fiery S…read more
Red Bull Racing is reportedly making internal preparations for the possibility that Max Verstappen may face a race suspension following a controversial incident during the Spanish Grand Prix. The reigning world champion found himself at the center of a storm after a dramatic on-track clash with Mercedes’ George Russell at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. While no immediate penalty was issued during the race, the stewards have since reviewed the altercation and handed Verstappen a post-race penalty, pushing him dangerously close to a one-race ban.
The confrontation between Verstappen and Russell unfolded during one of the race’s most intense phases, with both drivers battling aggressively for position. Verstappen, who was visibly frustrated throughout the event, had already expressed concerns about Red Bull’s strategy. He openly criticized the team’s decision to switch him to the hard tyre compound in the closing stages of the race — a choice that appeared to hinder his pace and left him vulnerable to rivals.
Tensions within the Red Bull camp reportedly grew further when team principal Christian Horner instructed Verstappen to allow Russell through — a rare and controversial call. The order was reportedly issued due to an earlier wheel-to-wheel incident between the two drivers, which many within the F1 paddock viewed as bordering on dangerous. Though Verstappen followed the directive reluctantly, the incident triggered a formal review from the race stewards. Their post-race judgment added more penalty points to Verstappen’s super licence, bringing him to the brink of suspension.
In Formula 1, the FIA imposes penalty points on drivers for violations of racing conduct. If a driver accumulates 12 points within a rolling 12-month window, they are automatically suspended for the following race. Verstappen, who has previously received penalty points for various on-track offenses, now finds himself just shy of this critical limit. The most recent infraction could be the tipping point.
Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, Red Bull Racing has reportedly activated contingency plans. According to insiders, the team is quietly assessing their options in case Verstappen is forced to sit out a race. Although no official announcement has been made, discussions are believed to be underway regarding potential replacements.
Among the candidates is Liam Lawson, Red Bull’s current reserve driver, who impressed during his previous fill-in stint. Also in the conversation is Daniel Ricciardo — a familiar face to the Red Bull family and someone with extensive experience in the sport. While Ricciardo’s current commitments with sister team RB (formerly AlphaTauri) could complicate matters, Red Bull may explore contractual flexibility if Verstappen is indeed suspended.
Verstappen’s absence would mark a significant disruption for Red Bull, a team that has built its recent dominance around his consistent performances. The Dutch driver’s points have been crucial in keeping Red Bull ahead in both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships. A forced break could open the door for rivals like Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren to capitalize on Red Bull’s temporary vulnerability.
At present, the FIA has not issued any formal statement regarding further disciplinary action. However, the paddock is rife with speculation, and the possibility of a suspension is being treated seriously by both media and teams. Red Bull, maintaining its usual guarded stance, has declined to comment on the matter officially but is clearly taking no chances.
As Formula 1 heads toward its next round, all eyes are on the stewards and the official penalty register. Should Verstappen’s point total trigger an automatic suspension, it could have major implications not only for Red Bull’s championship defense but also for the dynamic of the title fight as a whole.
