Verstappen Penalty, Cites New FIA Rules as Reason for….read more
Max Verstappen expressed his frustration following a controversial five-second penalty at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, suggesting he’s unable to fully speak his mind due to strict new FIA regulations. The Red Bull driver was penalised for leaving the track and gaining an advantage during a first-lap battle with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri. The penalty likely cost Verstappen the win, as he served it during his first pit stop and dropped behind Piastri, who went on to control the race and claim victory.
In the post-race press conference, Verstappen hinted at his displeasure but stopped short of criticising the FIA directly, citing potential repercussions under the sport’s new conduct rules. “You can’t share your opinion because it’s not appreciated, or people can’t handle the full truth,” he said. “Honestly, it’s better if I don’t say too much.”
Verstappen’s comments reflect changes introduced by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who pushed for penalties against drivers who swear or criticise the governing body. These new rules can result in severe consequences, such as a one-month ban or a deduction of championship points. Verstappen himself was previously required to complete a form of community service after swearing during a press conference last season, and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc was fined for similar behavior.
The Dutch driver explained that the tightening of regulations has made it difficult for drivers to speak freely. “There’s a lot of lines you can’t cross now. That’s why it’s better not to talk about it,” he added. Verstappen also suggested that the general atmosphere, influenced by social media and heightened sensitivity, has pushed him to become more reserved this season.
During the race, Verstappen’s radio communications hinted at his dissatisfaction with the penalty, though he was reportedly advised to remain silent. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner also criticised the stewards’ decision, calling it “very harsh” and questioning why the “let them race” approach no longer seemed to apply on the opening lap.
The stewards clarified that the usual penalty for leaving the track and gaining an advantage is 10 seconds but reduced it to five due to the incident occurring on the first lap. Piastri had positioned himself well on the inside line, meeting all criteria laid out in F1’s racing standards guidelines to be entitled to space in the corner. Verstappen, however, cut the chicane and retained the lead, resulting in the penalty.
After serving his penalty, Verstappen was unable to reclaim the lead, as Piastri kept him at bay to secure his third win in five races
this season.
