Verstappen refuses to adjust driving style despite...

Verstappen refuses to adjust driving style despite…read more

Max Verstappen is currently on the brink of facing a suspension from Formula 1 racing due to accumulating penalty points on his driving license. Despite this looming threat, the Dutch driver remains resolute in his commitment to his racing style and refuses to alter it, regardless of the potential repercussions from the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile).

As the 2024 season unfolded, Verstappen found himself racking up penalty points during the final races. While some of the penalties he received were arguably justified, he has now reached a total of eight penalty points. Under the current regulations, a driver faces a race suspension upon reaching 12 penalty points, a fate that befell fellow racer Kevin Magnussen earlier in the season. Verstappen’s penalty points will begin to expire at the end of June, which means he must carefully navigate the first 11 Grands Prix of the season without incurring more than three additional penalties.

The relationship between Verstappen and the FIA has been tumultuous, with several incidents highlighting their ongoing tensions. Last year, the Red Bull Racing driver found himself in hot water for using inappropriate language during a press conference, leading to community service as punishment. Additionally, he faced a one-place grid penalty in Qatar. Interestingly, rather than being deterred by these penalties, Verstappen appeared to draw motivation from them, culminating in impressive performances in races such as those in Brazil and Qatar.

When asked about the possibility of the FIA imposing even stricter penalties, Verstappen responded candidly, acknowledging that while many penalties could be debated endlessly, he is unfazed by his current situation. He pointed out that, like Fernando Alonso, he has accumulated eight penalty points, but this will not compel him to change the way he drives. His focus remains on racing with the same intensity and style that has become his trademark.

In the event that Verstappen does receive a suspension, he has a unique perspective on how to handle it. The driver is anticipating the arrival of his first child with partner Kelly Piquet and has humorously suggested that he might