Just in:Red Bull decide plan to SUSPEND a star Max Verstappen following the …read more
Red Bull decide plan to SUSPEND a star Max Verstappen following the …read more
Red Bull Racing is reportedly drawing up contingency plans in the event that their lead driver, Max Verstappen, is handed a suspension following a controversial clash with Mercedes driver George Russell during the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix. The reigning Formula 1 world champion has now moved dangerously close to a race ban, with this latest incident placing further scrutiny on his recent behavior on and off the track.
The drama unfolded at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, where tensions were high from the very beginning. Verstappen, known for his aggressive driving style and fierce competitiveness, was already growing visibly frustrated during the latter stages of the race. The turning point came when the Red Bull pit wall made a late call to switch him onto hard compound tyres, a decision that reportedly upset the Dutchman, who felt it compromised his ability to challenge for a higher position.
As the race progressed, a heated battle with George Russell ignited further controversy. During a particularly tight exchange on track, Verstappen and Russell made contact—a moment that immediately drew the attention of race stewards. Although initially classified as a “racing incident,” further review by the FIA led to Verstappen receiving a formal penalty. The exact nature of the penalty has not been publicly disclosed, but insiders suggest it added more penalty points to his super licence, pushing him dangerously close to the 12-point threshold that triggers an automatic one-race suspension.
The FIA has made it clear in recent years that driver conduct, especially repeat offenses or reckless on-track behavior, will not be tolerated. Verstappen’s mounting penalty points have thus become a serious concern for both the driver and his team.
Red Bull’s team principal, Christian Horner, reportedly attempted to defuse the situation during the race by instructing Verstappen to yield his position to Russell. This was likely an attempt to avoid further punishment from race officials by demonstrating good sportsmanship. However, Verstappen allegedly questioned the call over team radio and was reluctant to comply. The defiance added another layer of drama to what was already a tense afternoon for the team.
While Red Bull has not issued an official statement regarding the possibility of Verstappen missing a race, sources close to the team say that preparations are already underway in case the FIA hands down a suspension. It’s believed that Red Bull’s reserve driver—possibly Liam Lawson or another development talent—would step in if Verstappen is barred from racing. The team is reportedly evaluating options to ensure minimal disruption to their championship campaign, particularly with the Constructors’ Championship still very much in play.
Internally, the team is said to be divided over how to handle the situation. Some senior members reportedly believe that Verstappen needs to be reined in and reminded of the bigger picture, while others argue that his fiery personality is part of what makes him such a dominant force on the track. Either way, the current climate within Red Bull Racing appears far from settled.
This latest controversy marks yet another chapter in what has already been a turbulent season for Verstappen. From radio outbursts to aggressive overtakes and off-track tension with rivals and even teammates, the pressure on the three-time world champion continues to mount. With the FIA monitoring his behavior closely, any further incidents could have serious consequences not only for Verstappen personally but for Red Bull’s championship aspirations as well.
Fans and pundits alike will be closely watching the FIA’s next move. Whether Verstappen receives a formal suspension or merely a warning, the message from the sport’s governing body seems clear: no driver is above the rules, no matter how many titles they have to their name.
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