F1 News Today: Miami Grand Prix Sprint Race Result Changes as FIA Issue Max Verstappen…read more
F1 News Today: Miami Grand Prix Sprint Race Result Changes as FIA Issue Max Verstappen Penalty
A dramatic twist unfolded at the Miami Grand Prix sprint race today as the FIA handed a post-race penalty to Max Verstappen, altering the final sprint classification.
Verstappen, who initially finished second behind Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, was found to have exceeded track limits multiple times during the race. After a stewards’ review, he received a five-second time penalty, demoting him from P2 to P4. The revised result elevated Mercedes’ George Russell to second place and McLaren’s Lando Norris to third.
The FIA stated: “Car #1 repeatedly left the track without justifiable reason and failed to return in a safe and controlled manner, in breach of Appendix L, Chapter IV, Article 2c of the Sporting Code.”
Red Bull Racing expressed disappointment over the decision but confirmed they would not appeal. Team principal Christian Horner commented, “It’s a frustrating call, especially in a sprint format where track time is limited. But we respect the FIA’s ruling and will refocus for the main race.”
The updated sprint result reshapes the championship standings and adds extra tension heading into Sunday’s Grand Prix. With Leclerc gaining maximum sprint points and Verstappen losing ground, the title fight is tightening as the season intensifies.
