At the Hungarian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen expressed frustration over the FIA’s delayed investigation into his overtaking move on Lewis Hamilton, which took place 30 laps into the 70-lap race. The incident occurred during a heated battle at the Hungaroring, where both drivers were competing for points in a season largely influenced by McLaren’s resurgence.
Verstappen attempted to pass Hamilton for 11th position on lap 30 at Turn 4, taking an inside line that forced the Ferrari driver wide and briefly off the track. Although Hamilton did not lodge a complaint and dismissed the event, the FIA decided to review the incident after the race concluded. Hamilton chose not to attend the hearing, signaling his view that the matter was insignificant.
The stewards heard from the driver of Car 1 (Max Verstappen), team representatives and video and in-car video evidence. The driver of Car 44 (Lewis Hamilton) waived his right to attend the hearing,
the FIA stated.
The stewards determine that there was no contact and that the incident does not qualify as forcing another car off track, despite the ambitious nature of the overtaking attempt and take no further action.
Verstappen Questions FIA’s Timing and Complains About Complex Rules
Verstappen criticized the FIA’s decision to postpone the investigation until after the race, especially given that no physical collision occurred. He suggested the stewards should have reviewed the incident during the event itself.
I actually think it’s a shame I have to go back to the stewards after the race. Just analyse it during the race,
Verstappen told Viaplay.
I put my nose right next to him, and he was shocked. He drove off the track, so I don’t know exactly what’s going on there.
The reigning World Champion also highlighted how the expanding number of rules in Formula 1 creates confusion and unnecessary investigations, especially when both drivers remain silent and no direct contact occurs.
It’s just strange that we had to go to the stewards when there wasn’t even any contact. The problem is that there are so many rules now.
Verstappen remarked that the overall situation feels unclear due to this complexity, making it hard to understand when incidents warrant official attention.
Hamilton Remains Silent on the Hungarian Grand Prix Incident
Lewis Hamilton has yet to publicly respond to Verstappen’s overtaking maneuver or the subsequent review by the FIA. His silence appears to reflect his own perspective that the overtake was not noteworthy. This lack of commentary adds another layer to the ongoing tension between the two drivers as they continue their rivalry into the new season.
As the Formula 1 calendar moves beyond the summer break, debates over race regulations and stewarding decisions are likely to intensify, especially with key drivers nearing penalty thresholds that could lead to bans in 2025. Verstappen’s pointed remarks underscore growing dissatisfaction with how race incidents are managed under current FIA protocols.
