Max Verstappen’s precise understanding of Formula 1’s sporting regulations has been praised as an “art form” by Red Bull’s racing director, Stephen Knowles. During a discussion on The Inside Track podcast, Knowles emphasized how Verstappen’s ability to exploit the rules effectively has become a key component of his overall performance, alongside his natural speed.
Knowles, who took over as Red Bull’s head of sporting regulations following Jonathan Wheatley’s departure, commended Verstappen’s deep comprehension of the driving guidelines. He noted that this expertise sets Verstappen apart, enabling him to push the boundaries of what is permissible while remaining inside the lines.
Blending Tactical Rule Use With Raw Driving Skill
According to Knowles, Verstappen’s talent in navigating the complex sporting rules is as important to his success as his aggressive on-track driving. The Red Bull official explained that the driver has developed an intricate awareness of what actions are allowed and which are not, turning this knowledge into a strategic advantage during races.
“I think that the rules that we go racing are part of the sporting landscape and making the most out of that is a big part, big area [of his] performance in the same way as raw pace is,”
Knowles stated, highlighting the synergy between Verstappen’s rule application and driving capabilities.
Verstappen’s Reputation for Rule Adherence Amid Criticism
Though Verstappen’s rule-focused approach has occasionally attracted criticism, it remains integral to his racing style. A notable instance came at the 2023 United States Grand Prix, where McLaren’s Lando Norris received a five-second penalty after attempting to overtake Verstappen by going off the track. Verstappen’s adherence to the rules in that situation underlined his clear understanding of race boundaries.
Ahead of the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix, Verstappen addressed the controversy surrounding track limits and overtaking regulations, stressing the consistency of these rules throughout his career.
“At the end of the day, you cannot overtake outside of the white line,”
Verstappen remarked, adding,
“That’s a very clear rule and I’ve been done by it myself.”
He went further, saying,
“I don’t understand why suddenly now we need to ask and scream for changes in the regulation when it’s been like that forever. I grew up go-karting, F3, F1, you know that you cannot pass outside of the white line. It’s as simple as that.”
Verstappen emphasized that his method is not about bending the rules but following them rigorously.
“It’s how the rules are written. I didn’t make the rules, first of all, I just follow the rules as much as I can. Of course, sometimes you get caught out with it, we’ve had that in the past. I just implement the rules and play with them.”
Open Communication Between Verstappen and Red Bull’s Sporting Head
This straightforward attitude has fostered strong communication between Verstappen and Stephen Knowles. Knowles appreciates the driver’s candidness and willingness to engage honestly on regulatory matters.
“He takes a lot on board. We have very honest chats. He’s not the kind of person that you need to skirt around an issue with. You can be very direct, which I really appreciate.”
Implications for Verstappen’s Continued Dominance
Max Verstappen’s skill in exploiting F1 rules is likely to remain a critical element of his racing success, as teams and drivers constantly seek ways to maximize performance within the regulatory framework. His ability to push the limits of these guidelines without crossing them gives him an edge in competitive situations, reaffirming his status as one of the sport’s most formidable talents.
As Formula 1 evolves, Verstappen’s mastery of the rulebook combined with his raw pace will continue to influence how races unfold, making him a driver to watch closely in upcoming seasons and major events such as the Mexican Grand Prix.
