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Red Bull Under Fire as Verstappen Penalised in Spanish GP
A key figure within the Red Bull Formula 1 team is facing criticism after Max Verstappen received a costly penalty at last weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix a setback that could severely impact his title hopes.
The incident occurred in Barcelona when George Russell made a daring move on Verstappen at Turn 1, forcing the Red Bull driver off the track. Verstappen rejoined the circuit ahead of Russell but was soon instructed by his race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, to hand the position back — a decision that has sparked controversy.
Former F1 driver Robert Doornbos, speaking on Ziggo Sport Race Cafe, pointed the finger at Lambiase for acting too hastily. “Normally, Gianpiero Lambiase is sharp and clear over the radio, but this time he made the call far too quickly,” Doornbos said. “That kind of situation should be judged together. It’s happening more often this year let the driver decide rather than forcing it.”
Doornbos believes the miscommunication heightened Verstappen’s frustration, which led to a collision with Russell as he appeared to let him through. The incident earned Verstappen a 10-second penalty and three penalty points on his license. “The team failed, absolutely,” he added. “But as a driver, you also let the team down with such behaviour.”
Red Bull had hoped the Spanish GP would mark a turnaround in their campaign, especially with new FIA technical directives aimed at curbing McLaren’s rising dominance. However, the team continued to struggle with tyre degradation and was forced into a three-stop strategy that ultimately failed to deliver results.
McLaren capitalised with a dominant one-two finish, with Oscar Piastri leading teammate Lando Norris. Verstappen, penalised and out of rhythm, finished in 10th place leaving Spain with just one point.
The outcome has significantly dented Verstappen’s championship bid, dropping him 49 points behind Piastri in the standings. As pressure mounts, questions are now being raised over whether internal communication breakdowns are undermining Red Bull’s title defence.
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