Hungarian GP: Red Bull Officially Announce Max Ve...read more

Hungarian GP: Red Bull Officially Announce Max Verstappen Will NOT…read more

In a development that has sparked widespread attention across the Formula 1 community, Red Bull Racing have officially confirmed that Max Verstappen will not be taking part in the FIA’s mandatory press conference sessions ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix.

The FIA released the list of drivers scheduled to attend Thursday’s media day in Budapest, and Verstappen’s name was notably absent. Joining him in skipping the appearance is Yuki Tsunoda, Red Bull’s junior team driver from Racing Bulls. Instead, Liam Lawson, the reserve driver currently racing for Racing Bulls, will be present on behalf of the Red Bull-owned camp. On Friday, Red Bull’s new sporting director, Alan Permane, will attend the team representatives’ conference.

While no official reason has been given for Verstappen’s absence, such decisions are often part of media strategy, personal preparation routines, or internal team scheduling. Some speculate that Red Bull may be shielding Verstappen from continued media speculation following recent rumors about a potential move to Mercedes—rumors he firmly dismissed by confirming his 2026 commitment to Red Bull just days earlier.

Importantly, Verstappen is still fully expected to participate in all practice, qualifying, and race sessions at the Hungaroring. The absence only applies to the pre-race media obligations, and does not indicate any issue with fitness, penalties, or team decisions regarding his race weekend involvement.

This comes at a time when Red Bull is seeking to rebound after a series of mixed results and internal team leadership changes. Verstappen, who has been central to their success in recent years, remains their lead driver and is expected to play a key role in the team’s charge through the remainder of the 2025 season.

For now, fans and pundits will have to wait to hear from the reigning champion—not through the microphones of the FIA press room, but through his performance on the track.