With the Formula 1 calendar now stretching to a remarkable 24 races under Liberty Media’s management, drivers are under increasing pressure, particularly highlighted by Max Verstappen‘s recent experience after receiving a five-second penalty during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. As the final event of a grueling triple-header, Verstappen’s reluctance to discuss the penalty has cast a shadow over the mental strain drivers endure in today’s fast-paced racing season.
Liberty Media, since taking control in 2018, has transformed the F1 landscape, introducing new venues and tapping into markets such as the USA and the Middle East. While fans relish in the excitement of back-to-back races, the relentless nature of the schedule becomes a physical and mental burden for the drivers, mechanics, and journalists who contribute tirelessly to the sport.
F1 journalist Ben Hunt pointed out that the demanding schedule of 24 races, coupled with double and triple headers, often leaves drivers fatigued, diminishing their willingness to engage with media. He specifically noted how this fatigue might have influenced Max Verstappen’s mindset during the Saudi Arabian GP, where he faced scrutiny not just from the stewards but from an ever-pressing media too.
During the race, Verstappen found himself receiving a penalty for an incident involving Oscar Piastri. As the two battled for position on the first lap, Verstappen went off track but did not relinquish his place, which the stewards deemed a violation, resulting in a penalty for
leaving the track and gaining a lasting advantage.
When questioned about his thoughts post-race, Verstappen chose to remain silent, raising eyebrows amongst fans and analysts alike.
Hunt emphasized that the exhaustion from a triple-header can slow down a driver’s response both physically and mentally.
Everything slows down during a triple header; your ability to work to the best of your ability is inhibited by just being tired,
he explained. This fatigue might have been a factor in Verstappen’s muted reaction, as drivers feel the weight of a packed schedule while trying to maintain peak performance.
Interestingly, Verstappen has been candid in the past about the pressures of an expanding calendar, suggesting that he does not foresee a long-term future in F1 if the race schedule continues to grow at such an aggressive pace. His reflections indicate a growing dissatisfaction among drivers regarding the physical and emotional toll of the sport, especially as more sprint races get added to an already dense calendar.
Despite this, Verstappen’s focus remains on securing more championships, and he is not expected to leave the sport anytime soon. Nevertheless, his frustration over the penalty from the Jeddah race is palpable. He has not yet opened up to the media about his feelings, a stark contrast to his usual straightforward demeanor.
A week has passed since the Saudi Arabian GP, and with the Miami GP approaching, it remains uncertain whether Verstappen will address the penalty or remain tight-lipped. The potential for indirect comments remains, but as it stands, silence surrounds his thoughts, leaving fans and analysts speculating on the implications of his experiences in a demanding F1 calendar.
As the sport continues to evolve and expand, Verstappen’s response to the Jeddah penalty suggests a broader narrative about the pressures facing F1 drivers today. How these factors play out in the ongoing season remains to be seen, as the balance between thrilling races and the well-being of its stars becomes increasingly precarious.
