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Red Bull Confirms Final Decision Over Verstappen Penalty Protest

Red Bull Racing has officially decided not to appeal the five-second time penalty handed to Max Verstappen during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, putting an end to speculation over whether the team would challenge the stewards’ controversial decision.

The penalty, given after Verstappen left the track at Turn 1 while defending from McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, cost him victory in the race and significantly impacted the current championship standings. Verstappen finished second, while Piastri clinched the win and took the lead in the drivers’ championship.

Despite frustration within the team, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner confirmed that they would not activate the “right of review” with the FIA, stating that their focus would shift toward improving the clarity and consistency of racing regulations going forward.

“Time to Focus on the Bigger Picture”

“We won’t activate the right of review on this,” Horner told reporters. “It’s disappointing, of course, but the most important thing to address is what the standard is for racing incidents like this. It’s not clear, and that’s something the FIA needs to look into seriously.”

Horner emphasized that the team felt there was a lack of consistency in how the rules were applied, particularly in overtaking situations and incidents involving track limits.

“There have been similar situations in the past where drivers didn’t receive a penalty. So the question is, what are the rules? What are we allowed to do, and what crosses the line?”

Verstappen Keeps Quiet, But Tensions Simmer

Max Verstappen, who has built a reputation for his aggressive yet calculated driving style, showed visible signs of frustration post-race but refrained from criticizing the stewards outright.

“It’s better not to talk too much,” he said. “Otherwise, I might get into trouble.” His guarded comments hint at broader discontent among drivers about the current regulatory environment, where speaking out can sometimes carry consequences.

Verstappen also had a moment of tension with Piastri in parc fermé, where he failed to offer congratulations — a gesture that drew criticism from some fans and pundits, though others defended him, citing the emotional intensity of the moment.

Championship Implications

The decision not to pursue a review leaves Verstappen third in the drivers’ standings with 87 points. Piastri now leads with 99 points, while his McLaren teammate Lando Norris sits second with 97 points — marking a significant shift in the title battle as the 2025 season gains momentum.

Red Bull’s choice to move on from the incident may also reflect a strategic decision to avoid further distractions. With a long season ahead, they’re likely aiming to regain control on track rather than in the courtroom.

Call for Consistency in Stewarding

The outcome of the Saudi Arabian GP has sparked a wider debate within the F1 community about the consistency of stewarding. Several drivers and team principals have expressed concern that the rules are applied inconsistently, depending on the race or the officials on duty.

Horner echoed those concerns, calling for the FIA to revisit the guidelines and provide clearer definitions around racing conduct and acceptable defensive driving.

“It’s not just about this race,” he said. “It’s about making sure we have a fair, transparent sport where drivers know what they can and can’t do. That’s something we’ll keep pushing for.”

Looking Ahead

With the next race fast approaching, Red Bull will be eager to bounce back. Despite the setback, Verstappen remains a formidable contender, and Red Bull still leads the constructors’ standings. The championship fight is heating up — and if this past weekend is any indication, there’s plenty more drama ahead.

Whether the FIA responds with greater regulatory clarity remains to be seen. But for now, Red Bull is focused on racing — and determined to turn frustration into fuel.