Max Verstappen has ignited debate around Formula 1’s post-race inspections, claiming that half of his competitors could face disqualification in 2025 if checks were performed after every event. His comments, focusing on the effectiveness of current enforcement, come as the sport anticipates regulatory changes ahead of the 2026 championship, and highlight ongoing controversy around compliance and fairness.
Verstappen Raises Concerns Over Inconsistencies in F1 Scrutineering
The Red Bull driver has publicly questioned the current process managed by the FIA, which only inspects a select group of cars following each grand prix. Verstappen argued that several teams and drivers have avoided disqualification simply because their vehicles were not checked at every race. He told La Gazzetta dello Sport,
“You’re always trying to find the limit; we all do it. Sometimes everything runs smoothly because you’re not always inspected.”
He followed with a bolder claim:
“In my opinion, if the teams were inspected for every race, half of them would definitely be found to be in breach of regulations.”
– Max Verstappen, Red Bull Driver.
Resource Limits Pose Challenge for More Comprehensive Checks
While Verstappen supports stricter enforcement, he also acknowledged the logistical hurdles facing the FIA if they attempted to inspect every car. He noted,
“Besides, it’s not possible to inspect every car; it would take a lot of people,”
– Max Verstappen, Red Bull Driver.
These comments reflect the ongoing balance between rigorous regulation and practical execution within the championship, especially as new regulations loom for 2026.
Recent Disqualifications Highlight Need for Scrutiny
The 2025 season witnessed several high-profile disqualifications, including Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, Pierre Gasly, and both McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, after their cars failed stringent post-race checks. The Las Vegas Grand Prix stood out when Norris and Piastri, despite strong finishes, were both excluded because the skid blocks on their MCL39 cars did not meet the minimum specification. Responding to this issue, FIA officials extended post-race checks to all eight remaining cars in the top ten, including Verstappen’s, and found them compliant.
Ongoing Debate Surrounds Potential Policy Change
Verstappen’s skepticism regarding mandatory inspections for all competitors highlights broader resistance within the paddock. While some argue such changes could enforce fairness, others cite the immense resources required. Verstappen’s own position may shift depending on future FIA decisions, particularly as the Dutchman has, until now, passed every check.
This debate underscores the tension between competitive boundaries and enforcement feasibility, as Formula 1 prepares for evolving standards, leaving the paddock anticipating how the FIA will balance integrity with practicality in future seasons.
