Max Verstappen Refuses to Discuss First-Lap Controversy in Saudi Arabia

Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen, who started the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix from pole position, remained tight-lipped about a first-lap incident that cost him a potential victory. The Dutchman claimed he could face FIA penalties if he shared his opinion on the matter.

Incident and Penalty Explained

During the race, Verstappen was challenged off the line by eventual winner Oscar Piastri. A collision at Turn 2 resulted in a five-second time penalty for Verstappen, which he received over the team radio. Despite pitting only once, Verstappen couldn’t catch up to Piastri and finished 2.843 seconds behind the McLaren driver.

When informed of his punishment, Verstappen expressed his displeasure using a colorful phrase instead of his usual “simply lovely.” In the post-race press conference, he was evasive about the incident, stating that he couldn’t share his opinion without risking further penalties.

Stewards’ Explanation and Reactions

The stewards determined that Piastri had the right of way at Turn 2 based on positioning, marshalling system data, video evidence, timing, telemetry, and in-car video evidence. George Russell, who started third, expressed surprise that Verstappen didn’t give up the position upon returning to the track. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner and advisor Helmut Marko voiced their dissatisfaction with the stewards’ decision.

Despite facing fines for swearing in a press conference at the Singapore Grand Prix last year, Verstappen chose to remain silent about the Saudi Arabian incident. When asked by Motorsport.com if he felt frustrated by his inability to speak freely about such situations, Verstappen replied that it’s just the way things are today.

Verstappen suggested that his words can be twisted or misinterpreted online, preferring to say less to avoid potential trouble. He also criticized the current environment where one cannot be overly critical without risking backlash. Verstappen concluded by saying that less talking is better for him.