F1 Today: FIA issue late penalty verdict as Max Verstappen disqua

F1 Today: FIA issue late penalty verdict as Max Verstappen disqualification d…read more

A major controversy has emerged at the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix after 2016 Formula One World Champion Nico Rosberg publicly demanded that reigning champion Max Verstappen be disqualified. The demand follows a delayed ruling by the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile), which issued a penalty decision late after the race had concluded, raising questions about transparency and fairness in the sport.

The incident that sparked the uproar occurred during a tense and closely contested Spanish Grand Prix. Verstappen, who has been dominating the current F1 season, was under the microscope after his Red Bull car was alleged to have breached technical regulations. While details about the exact nature of the infringement remain unclear, the FIA’s delayed investigation and subsequent penalty ruling have become the focal point of heated debate among drivers, pundits, and fans alike.

Rosberg, who is now a respected F1 commentator and analyst, did not mince his words when commenting on the situation. He insisted that if the FIA confirmed that Verstappen’s car failed to comply with the rules, then a disqualification was not only appropriate but necessary to preserve the integrity of the sport. “There can be no exceptions when it comes to upholding the rules,” Rosberg stated during a post-race broadcast. “If there’s a breach, there must be consequences, regardless of who the driver is.”

Verstappen crossed the finish line in first place at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, adding what appeared to be another solid victory to his already impressive season. However, whispers about a possible infraction started circulating shortly after the race ended. The FIA’s decision to wait several hours before announcing any formal verdict only added fuel to the fire, prompting accusations of favoritism and procedural inconsistency.

The nature of the FIA’s late ruling has become a significant point of contention. According to reports, officials found irregularities during the post-race inspection, but the specifics of the violation have yet to be fully disclosed. What is known is that the penalty issued fell short of disqualification, something that has not sat well with various members of the F1 community.

Rosberg’s comments echo a broader sentiment shared by several observers who believe the FIA must apply its regulations consistently. Critics argue that lesser-known drivers and teams often receive harsher treatment for similar infractions, suggesting a double standard may be at play when it comes to top-tier drivers like Verstappen.

This isn’t the first time Verstappen has found himself at the center of controversy. Over the years, the Dutch driver has earned a reputation for aggressive racing and pushing the limits—traits that have earned him both admirers and detractors. Nonetheless, his skill and dominance are unquestionable, making him a formidable figure on the grid.

The call for disqualification has divided the F1 community. Some fans have taken to social media in support of Rosberg’s position, arguing that letting Verstappen keep his win would send the wrong message about accountability in the sport. Others believe the penalty, however lenient it may appear, was adequate given the circumstances and that disqualification would be a disproportionate response.

The FIA has yet to release a detailed explanation of their penalty decision, and it remains to be seen whether further action will be taken. As the F1 calendar moves forward, the spotlight remains fixed on the governing body, which is now under immense pressure to justify its actions and ensure fairness for all competitors.

In the meantime, Verstappen and Red Bull Racing are preparing for the next race amid growing scrutiny. Whether or not the controversy will affect their momentum is uncertain, but one thing is clear—the fallout from the Spanish Grand Prix is far from over.