Max Verstappen Slams FIA Over…

Max Verstappen Criticizes FIA Over Saudi Arabian GP Penalty, Citing Restrictive F1 Environment

Max Verstappen has reignited debate in the Formula 1 world following a controversial five-second time penalty he received during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. The reigning four-time world champion was penalised after going off track at Turn 1 during an opening-lap battle with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri. Verstappen rejoined the circuit ahead of Piastri, prompting the stewards to rule that he had gained a lasting advantage by not yielding the position. The penalty, issued under F1’s driving standards guidelines, was ultimately decisive as it allowed Piastri to claim victory.

Although visibly frustrated over the radio during the race, Verstappen refrained from going into detail in his post-race interviews. When asked, he hinted that speaking freely could invite disciplinary action from Formula 1’s governing body. “You can’t share your opinion because apparently, it’s not appreciated—or people can’t handle the full truth,” Verstappen said. “Honestly, it’s better if I don’t say too much.”

His remarks allude to new FIA regulations that crack down on drivers’ speech and conduct, especially anything perceived as damaging to the sport’s reputation. Under rules championed by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, drivers can now face sanctions such as points deductions or even temporary race bans for swearing or criticising the FIA. Verstappen himself has already faced disciplinary measures under these new rules, having been required to perform community service for swearing during a previous press conference. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has also been subjected to similar penalties.

During the official media session in Jeddah, Verstappen sarcastically highlighted how restrictive driver communication has become. “I cannot swear in here, but at the same time, you also can’t be critical in any form that might ‘harm’ or ‘danger’… Let me get the sheet out. There’s a lot of lines, you know?” he joked, alluding to the growing list of restrictions. He went on to suggest that the increasing pressure on driver behaviour stems from the broader cultural climate and the influence of social media. “It has to do with social media in general, and how the world is,” he said. “Sometimes your words can be twisted… it’s better not to say too much.”

The incident that led to the penalty occurred when Piastri placed his car alongside Verstappen at the inside of Turn 1. According to F1 rules, once a driver has earned the right to space, the leading car must leave room. The stewards determined that Verstappen failed to comply and that rejoining the track ahead constituted gaining a lasting advantage. Although such infractions typically result in a 10-second penalty, the stewards opted for five seconds due to the incident taking place on the opening lap.

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner voiced his displeasure with the decision, calling it “very harsh” and questioning the consistency of the stewards. “Whatever happened to ‘let them race on the first lap?’” he asked. In contrast, McLaren supported the penalty wholeheartedly. Oscar Piastri maintained that his move was legal and within the limits, while team principal Andrea Stella called the situation “clear-cut,” saying, “You can’t overtake off track. This is a clear case.”

After serving his penalty during a pit stop, Verstappen dropped behind Piastri, who capitalized on clean air to maintain his lead. Despite Verstappen’s early pace advantage, Piastri controlled the race from the front and secured his third win in five races.