Possible Suspension Looms as FIA Warns Red Bull Over Pet…read more
The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has formally issued a warning to Red Bull Racing following the team’s controversial move to file a petition against the penalty imposed on Max Verstappen during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. According to sources close to the governing body, FIA officials viewed the team’s recent statements and actions as a direct challenge to the authority of race stewards, and cautioned that continued dissent could potentially lead to further disciplinary measures — including possible suspension from future events.
The controversy stems from a five-second time penalty given to Max Verstappen during the Saudi Grand Prix for a track limits infringement and what race stewards described as “unsportsmanlike conduct” during a defensive maneuver. Red Bull, dissatisfied with the ruling, submitted a formal petition for a right to review, citing new evidence and expressing strong disapproval of the decision in post-race comments.
Team Principal Christian Horner voiced his frustration shortly after the race, suggesting that the penalty was “inconsistent with prior rulings” and arguing that Verstappen had been unfairly targeted. “We’re not here to play politics,” Horner stated. “We want clarity and consistency. What happened in Jeddah was neither.”
In the wake of Red Bull’s remarks and the formal petition, the FIA issued a cautionary letter reminding the team of its obligations under the International Sporting Code, particularly Article 12.2, which deals with misconduct and bringing the sport into disrepute. The letter reportedly emphasized that while teams have the right to seek a review, public accusations of bias or unfair treatment without substantial proof risk undermining the integrity of the championship.
“The FIA encourages transparency and fairness, but we will not tolerate actions that attempt to delegitimize the role of our stewards,” an FIA spokesperson said in a brief statement. “Teams must conduct themselves within the framework of the regulations. Repeated breaches or inflammatory public statements could warrant further investigation and sanctions.”
This warning has sparked concern among fans and paddock insiders, with speculation mounting over whether Red Bull could face harsher penalties if tensions escalate. While a full suspension is considered a last resort, insiders say the FIA is determined to assert its authority amid a season already fraught with controversy.
Despite the stern warning, Red Bull remains defiant. In a follow-up statement, the team maintained its position, emphasizing its commitment to fair racing and suggesting that their pushback is “a necessary step to preserve sporting integrity.” Verstappen, for his part, has kept a relatively low profile since the incident but did tell Dutch media that he “stood by the team’s decision” to challenge the call.
As the Formula 1 circus prepares for the next round of the championship, all eyes will be on Red Bull and the FIA to see whether this latest clash cools down or intensifies further. With title implications and the sport’s reputation on the line, the outcome of this dispute could have lasting consequences for the remainder
of the season.
