Max Verstappen facing race BAN as FIA i....read more

Max Verstappen facing race BAN as FIA i….read more

Max Verstappen is now dangerously close to receiving a suspension from Formula 1 following a controversial incident during the Spanish Grand Prix. The Red Bull driver was penalized after clashing with Mercedes rival George Russell late in the race, a move that has sparked debate across the paddock and among fans. The collision, which didn’t result in a retirement or significant position loss for either driver at the time, still drew the attention of the FIA stewards, who acted firmly.

Verstappen, who finished the race on the road in fourth place, made contact with Russell’s car in what appeared to be an aggressive move down the inside. Although both drivers continued without immediate issue, the stewards reviewed the footage and decided that Verstappen was predominantly to blame for the incident. As a result, the Dutchman was handed a 10-second time penalty, which saw him fall down the order to 10th in the final classification.

More critically, Verstappen was also issued three penalty points on his FIA superlicence. That brings his total up to 11 points – just one shy of the 12-point threshold that would trigger an automatic one-race ban. Under FIA regulations, any driver who accumulates 12 penalty points within a 12-month period faces an immediate suspension from one Grand Prix. This rule was introduced to deter reckless driving and ensure consistent discipline across the grid.

With Verstappen now just one point away from such a sanction, the situation has escalated dramatically. If he were to commit even a minor infringement in an upcoming race that results in another penalty point, he could be forced to sit out a round of the championship — a massive potential blow for both him and the Red Bull team as the title race intensifies.

Calls have already emerged from within the sport for harsher consequences. One former F1 champion has even suggested that Verstappen should have been disqualified entirely from the Spanish Grand Prix, criticizing the reigning champion’s driving standards and accusing him of endangering others on track. This latest development adds further tension to what has already been a fiercely competitive season.

As the paddock turns its attention to the next race, all eyes will be on Verstappen. Any further incidents could not only change the course of the championship but also ignite deeper discussions about driving conduct, penalties, and fairness in Formula 1.