BREAKING: Max Verstappen’s Heated Exchange with FIA President C…read more
Verstappen’s Heated Exchange with FIA President Caught on Camera
Max Verstappen was filmed in a tense confrontation with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem following a controversial Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
The Red Bull star was visibly upset after being handed a five-second penalty, which he believed robbed him of a second victory this season. Verstappen claimed he was forced off the track by eventual winner Oscar Piastri a move he felt went unpunished.
Although Verstappen and Ben Sulayem had never directly clashed before, their differing views have created friction over the past year, especially regarding the FIA’s crackdown on driver behavior, including stricter rules about swearing. Verstappen himself was penalized with community service in 2024 for breaching these language rules, a policy thought to have been driven by Ben Sulayem.
The post-race footage which did not air during Sky Sports’ live coverage showed Verstappen looking agitated while speaking with the FIA boss. While the specifics of their conversation weren’t captured, Verstappen’s animated gestures suggested he was airing his frustrations.
Verstappen’s Frustration with FIA Restrictions Grows
Later, Verstappen carefully navigated his post-race comments, clearly holding back to avoid further penalties.
“The problem is I can’t really give my opinion because it might lead to another penalty, so it’s better to stay quiet,” he said after the race.
He continued jokingly: “I know I’m not allowed to swear here, but you also can’t be critical in any way that might cause ‘harm’ or ‘danger.’ There’s a whole list of things. Better not to talk at all, or you risk getting into trouble.”
Verstappen appeared to reference an FIA regulation that forbids any behavior or speech that could harm the image of the FIA or motorsport in general.
With tensions already high in the 2025 season, Verstappen’s rocky relationship with the FIA shows no signs of cooling and could spark more drama as the title race intensifies.
