FIA Steward Breaks Silence on Max Verstappen..read more

FIA Steward Breaks Silence on Max Verstappen Punishment After…read more

In the aftermath of the dramatic Spanish Grand Prix, FIA steward Derek Warwick has spoken publicly for the first time about the controversial penalty handed to Max Verstappen following his collision with George Russell.

The incident, which occurred at Turn 5 during a tense mid-race battle, saw Verstappen attempt an aggressive overtake on Russell’s Mercedes, resulting in contact that sent both drivers wide. While Verstappen managed to continue, the stewards quickly intervened, issuing a 10-second time penalty and three penalty points on the reigning champion’s super licence.

Speaking to reporters earlier today, Warwick defended the decision, calling Verstappen’s move “absolutely wrong” but asserting that the penalty imposed was “perfect” for the situation.

“We had to send a clear message that reckless driving, even in the heat of competition, will not go unpunished,” Warwick explained. “But we also need to be proportionate. This wasn’t deliberate, just misjudged.”

The penalty ultimately dropped Verstappen from fifth to tenth place, dealing a blow to his championship aspirations and placing him just one penalty point away from a race ban. Verstappen now holds 11 points on his licence, with 12 triggering an automatic one-race suspension.

The controversy sparked heated debate across the paddock and media. Some, including former world champion Nico Rosberg, argued Verstappen should have been disqualified altogether. However, Warwick pushed back firmly on that suggestion, stating that while the move was aggressive, it didn’t meet the criteria for a disqualification.

Adding further weight to the story is the fact that Verstappen’s penalty points are cumulative, meaning even a minor infraction in the next race—the upcoming Canadian Grand Prix—could see him sidelined for a race.

Despite the drama, Verstappen expressed visible frustration but has yet to comment directly on the steward’s latest remarks.

As the F1 circus heads to Montreal this weekend, all eyes will be on Verstappen—not just for his pace, but for whether he can keep his composure under immense pressure.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.