Max Verstappen BLINDSIDED by Red Bull’s Shock Decision After...read more

Max Verstappen BLINDSIDED by Red Bull’s Shock Decision After Canadian GP Drama

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen was reportedly blindsided by a controversial Red Bull decision following the dramatic conclusion of the 2025 Canadian Grand Prix.

The 10th round of the F1 calendar ended in anticlimactic fashion as the race concluded under safety car conditions, with Mercedes star George Russell claiming his first victory of the season. Verstappen, who finished second, was within striking distance when the yellow flags were waved but had no opportunity to challenge for the win due to the neutralized finish.

However, the post-race headlines weren’t dominated by the racing action but by Red Bull’s unexpected protest to the FIA. The team alleged that Russell had driven erratically behind the safety car in the closing laps, potentially violating the sporting regulations. Red Bull’s challenge came hours after the chequered flag and stirred controversy across the paddock.

FIA stewards quickly investigated the claims but ruled that there was no breach of the rules. The decision stood, and Russell’s win was officially upheld. What caught many by surprise, however, was the apparent lack of internal communication within the Red Bull camp—especially with their leading driver.

In a revealing moment after the race, George Russell told reporters at the F1 movie premiere in New York that Verstappen wasn’t even aware his own team had lodged a protest.

“Max didn’t know there was a protest even going on,” Russell said. “So I don’t know what was going on, what they were thinking. Glad nothing happened one way or another—it was just a bit of a waste of everybody’s time.”

The revelation has triggered fresh scrutiny of Red Bull’s decision-making process and raised questions about internal dynamics within the reigning champions’ garage. For a team known for its tight coordination and dominant performances, the apparent communication breakdown has sparked speculation about growing tensions behind the scenes.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff didn’t hold back either, publicly criticizing Red Bull’s approach.

“It was embarrassing,” he remarked post-race. “Protesting without new evidence just wastes everyone’s time and puts unnecessary pressure on race control.”

This latest incident comes amid an increasingly tense championship battle and follows a string of political and on-track controversies that have defined the 2025 season. Verstappen himself has had a fractious relationship with some of his rivals in recent weeks, including several run-ins with both Mercedes and McLaren drivers.

The decision by Red Bull to protest without informing Verstappen has led to growing speculation about internal disagreements or a lack of alignment within the team. With Ferrari resurgent and Mercedes closing the gap, Red Bull’s air of invincibility appears to be cracking.

While Verstappen remains a strong contender for a fifth world title, the latest saga has added an unexpected twist to his campaign. Whether this was a simple oversight or a sign of deeper internal discord, it’s clear that the reigning champion is navigating a more complex environment than in previous seasons.

As the paddock prepares for the next round of the championship, the focus will now turn to whether Red Bull can regroup—and whether Verstappen will push for more transparency and control in how his team handles such high-stakes situations.