Verstappen on the Edge: One Point from Race Ban at… read more

Verstappen on the Edge: One Point from Race Ban at… read more

Montreal, June 13, 2025 — Max Verstappen arrives at the Canadian Grand Prix facing immense scrutiny and pressure, as he teeters on the brink of a race suspension. The Red Bull Racing star is currently sitting on 11 penalty points on his FIA super license — just one short of the 12-point threshold that would result in an automatic one-race ban under Formula 1 regulations. With two crucial races — Canada and Austria — ahead before some of his existing penalty points expire, Verstappen must tread carefully.

The situation intensified following a controversial clash with Mercedes driver George Russell during the closing stages of the Spanish Grand Prix. Verstappen was handed a 10-second time penalty for his role in the incident and, more significantly, received three additional penalty points on his license. This escalation put him in a perilous position, as he now has no margin for error on track until the end of June when the points from earlier infractions begin to expire.

Despite the obvious risk, the reigning world champion has made it clear that he has no intentions of altering his aggressive, hard-nosed driving style. Verstappen remains unapologetic, maintaining that the competitive mindset and assertive approach he brings to the grid have been fundamental to his success. Speaking ahead of the Montreal weekend, he reaffirmed his commitment to racing on the edge, insisting that diluting his natural instincts would not only feel unnatural but potentially undermine his performance.

“I race the way I do because it works,” Verstappen said confidently. “Yes, I’m aware of the situation, but backing down isn’t an option for me. I know where the line is, and I’ll keep pushing, just like always.”

The tension around Verstappen’s current position is palpable within the F1 paddock. A single misjudgment or penalty — whether due to contact with another car, ignoring track limits, or unsportsmanlike conduct — could result in him sitting out a Grand Prix. For a driver who is often central to the title fight and crucial to Red Bull’s championship hopes, a ban would be a major blow to both his personal campaign and his team’s standings.

As the F1 circus moves into Montreal, all eyes will be on Verstappen to see whether he can maintain his trademark intensity without stepping over the line. The stakes have rarely been higher for the Dutch driver, who now must walk a tightrope between competitive instinct and calculated restraint.