1. Red Bull’s Verstappen in Session-Ending Crash Amid Red Flags at Saudi Grand Prix

 

The 2025 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit delivered intense drama, with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen at the center of a session-ending crash that brought out red flags and shook the championship battle. The chaotic race was defined by multiple incidents, on-track controversies, and strategic twists that left teams and fans reeling.

 

Early Chaos and Multiple Red Flags

 

The drama began early when Mick Schumacher crashed at high speed into the barriers at Turn 22, prompting the first red flag. The incident allowed drivers who hadn’t pitted — like Verstappen — to switch tires without losing position, causing frustration among rivals, particularly Lewis Hamilton.

 

After the race resumed, chaos intensified. A collision involving Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez saw Perez’s Red Bull spun into the wall. The incident triggered a domino effect with George Russell and Nikita Mazepin also involved, prompting another red flag. These repeated stoppages disrupted race strategies and raised tensions in the paddock.

 

Verstappen-Hamilton Showdown

 

As the race stabilized, the focus shifted to the fierce title rivalry between Verstappen and Hamilton. Verstappen briefly took the lead after cutting Turn 1, but was ordered to give the position back. As Verstappen slowed to comply, Hamilton ran into the back of the Red Bull, damaging both cars.

 

Hamilton, over team radio, criticized Verstappen’s behavior, calling it “f****** crazy,” while Verstappen was hit with a five-second penalty for gaining an unfair advantage by leaving the track. The controversial moment only added to the already fiery dynamic between the two drivers.

 

Despite the damage, Hamilton managed to retake the lead and went on to win the race, tying Verstappen in the championship standings — setting up an electrifying battle for the rest of the season.

 

Mounting Pressure Inside Red Bull

 

Verstappen’s crash and the growing intensity of the championship have fueled questions about his long-term future with Red Bull. Reports suggest that Verstappen has an exit clause in his contract that could be activated if he drops below third in the Drivers’ Championship during the summer break.

 

Currently sitting in third, Verstappen is walking a fine line. Any further dip in performance or internal strife could jeopardize his position and trigger a potential departure from the team.

 

Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner has downplayed such speculation, reaffirming Verstappen’s commitment through 2026. However, the team is facing pressure — from within and without — to improve car reliability, strategy execution, and internal unity amid rising tensions.

 

What’s Next?

 

The aftermath of the Saudi Grand Prix has left Red Bull scrambling to regroup and Verstappen looking to recover momentum. With rivals gaining ground and the championship stakes escalating, every decision from now on will be crucial.

 

As the paddock moves on to the next race, all eyes will remain on Verstappen, Red Bull, and the ever-intensifying battle at the top. The season is far from over, but the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix has already proven to be one

 of its most pivotal moments.