Christian Horner revealed that he met with Formula 1 race control during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend to discuss concerns over Max Verstappen’s potential F1 race ban discussion. Verstappen, a four-time world champion, is just one penalty point away from triggering a mandatory race suspension. If he receives another penalty during the upcoming Austrian GP, he would face a ban at the Silverstone race.
Red Bull, Verstappen’s team, is acutely aware of this risk, particularly about rival drivers possibly employing tactics aimed at provoking a penalty. Horner openly acknowledged these worries while speaking to the media in Canada.
“It is inevitable that certain games are going to be played,”
Horner said.
“So that’s something we discussed with race control after the drivers briefing. We wanted them to take that into account because it was clear that this kind of thing could happen. But Max Verstappen had a spotless weekend [in Canada] and a good race.”
—Christian Horner, Red Bull Team Principal
Verstappen’s Race Ban Threat Originated from Spanish GP Incident
Verstappen’s proximity to a race ban began after an incident at the Spanish Grand Prix, where he was found to have deliberately caused a collision with George Russell. This resulted in three penalty points being added to his FIA Super Licence.
Despite this, both Verstappen and Russell lined up side by side on the front row at the following Montreal race and managed to navigate the first corner without incident. Verstappen finished second in Canada behind Russell, who claimed his first victory of the season.
The ongoing speculation about Verstappen’s eligibility clearly frustrated the Dutch driver. After qualifying in Montreal, he expressed annoyance at repeated media questioning on this topic.
“I don’t need to hear it again. You were speaking about it on Thursday,”
Verstappen remarked to reporters after qualifying.
“It’s such a waste of time. It’s very childish. So, that’s why I also don’t want to say too much because it’s really annoying, this world that we live in.”
—Max Verstappen, F1 Driver
Implications for Verstappen and Formula 1 Season
The possibility of Verstappen facing a race ban at Silverstone adds a tense dynamic ahead of the Austrian GP, as rival teams might attempt aggressive tactics to exploit his vulnerable position. Horner’s proactive meeting with race control reflects Red Bull’s intent to safeguard their champion against any orchestrated attempts to influence penalties.
How Verstappen and Red Bull navigate this challenge could have significant consequences for the championship battle this season. With Verstappen at risk of suspension, rival drivers like George Russell and others may be emboldened to push harder, increasing the pressure on the championship leader’s performance and discipline on track.
