Verstappen’s Red Bull Summoned at Belgian gp by FIA over…read more
Max Verstappen’s Red Bull RB21 has been officially summoned by the FIA for a standard inspection ahead of the 2025 Belgian Grand Prix weekend at Spa-Francorchamps. The four-time Formula 1 world champion, currently under the leadership of new Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies, remains a focal point in the paddock following recent events within the team and the sport as a whole.
The FIA’s announcement confirmed that Verstappen’s car, along with those of Carlos Sainz and Liam Lawson, will be presented for inspection and media viewing before the on-track action begins. Although such summonses often draw attention, this particular case is part of a routine FIA protocol. Certain cars are selected for official presentations, allowing media, officials, and paddock personnel to take a detailed look at them. This move does not imply any technical infringement or misconduct by Verstappen, Red Bull, or the other teams involved.
This year’s Belgian Grand Prix is a sprint weekend, which means there will be only one practice session on Friday before qualifying and sprint events commence. The revised weekend format increases the stakes, offering up to 32 points—a significant opportunity for Verstappen as he aims to cut down the growing points deficit to the McLaren duo of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in the championship standings.
Verstappen arrives at Spa with additional pressure, not just from the track, but also from the swirling rumors and recent internal changes at Red Bull. The departure of former team principal Christian Horner between the British and Belgian Grand Prix weekends has sparked considerable speculation about the team’s future and Verstappen’s long-term plans. Despite suggestions from Mercedes boss Toto Wolff that a potential 2026 move for Verstappen is improbable, the Dutch driver made it clear during Thursday’s media session that he intends to stay at Red Bull—provided the team continues delivering championship-caliber cars.
With Spa being one of the most iconic and unpredictable circuits on the calendar, Verstappen is determined to regain lost ground. After recent performances allowed Oscar Piastri to extend his lead at the top of the driver standings to 69 points, the Belgian GP presents a crucial opportunity for the Red Bull driver. Verstappen will be racing in front of a massive contingent of Dutch fans—commonly known as the “orange army”—and hopes to deliver a performance that reignites his title campaign.
Oscar Piastri, who is currently experiencing a three-race winless streak, is also under pressure to regain his earlier form and maintain his lead over teammate Lando Norris, who trails by just eight points. Both McLaren drivers are seen as Verstappen’s main rivals as the championship fight intensifies heading into the second half of the season.
As the cars are prepared for inspection and the teams gear up for an action-packed weekend, all eyes will be on Spa, where every point—and every detail—could make a difference in the title race.
