BREAKING: Verstappen on Saudi Arabia Penalty: “The…read more
Verstappen on Saudi Arabia Penalty: “The Full Truth Is Too Much for People”
By Lewis Larkam
Max Verstappen has explained why he remained silent over his penalty at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, suggesting the truth behind the decision is something “people can’t handle.”
The reigning four-time world champion was hit with a five-second time penalty after going off-track during an opening-lap tussle with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri at Turn 1, a move the stewards ruled gave him an unfair advantage. Though Verstappen started the race from pole position, he ultimately finished second behind Piastri.
The Dutch driver’s frustration was clear post-race, cutting short his grid interview. Later, during the FIA press conference, Verstappen kept his responses vague, sidestepping questions about the penalty.
“The start happened, Turn 1 happened, and before I knew it, we were at lap 50. The race flew by,” Verstappen said. “But honestly, I can’t share my thoughts on the situation because it might lead to further penalties. So it’s better for me to stay quiet.”
Red Bull reviewed the decision and even presented counter-evidence but decided against filing an official protest.
When asked if his silence was out of concern for further action from the FIA, Verstappen confirmed his caution, pointing to a larger issue in modern sports discussions.
“It’s just the way the world works now. If you say exactly what you think, it’s either not welcomed or people simply can’t handle it,” he said.
Verstappen also referred to stricter FIA rules about driver conduct, which were tightened after he was assigned public service work last season for swearing at the Singapore Grand Prix press conference.
“There’s a long list of things you can’t say in press conferences now. So honestly, it’s just safer not to comment. You could easily land in trouble, and no one wants that,” Verstappen explained.
He concluded by addressing the role of social media in shaping public reactions. “A lot of it comes down to social media and how people twist words or take them out of context. It’s usually easier to say as little as possible.”
