Max Verstappen made headlines at the Singapore Grand Prix weekend, not just for his performance on the track but for his clear protest against a recent penalty issued by the FIA. The reigning world champion was punished for swearing during a pre-race press conference, and in response, he offered only brief and curt answers during the post-qualifying media session.
The Max Verstappen Incident that Sparked the Protest
During a Thursday press conference, Verstappen used an expletive to describe his car’s performance: “knew the car was f****d.”
The FIA, citing its code of conduct, penalized the Red Bull driver with a form of “community service,” deviating from their previous fines or warnings for similar infractions. Verstappen, frustrated with the decision, hinted that the governing body was trying to set an example with him.
“They want to set a precedent,” Verstappen remarked, noting that previous incidents of swearing were handled with minor fines. “It’s in the code, so they have to follow the book…I think they are quite understanding, but it’s difficult for them as well.”
Limited Responses in Press Conference
Following his second-place qualifying performance, Verstappen attended the obligatory FIA press conference alongside fellow drivers Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton. His responses were minimal, with journalists receiving answers like “maybe” and “a lot” when asked about his race pace and car changes. When pressed about his brief replies, Verstappen stated, “I prefer not to speak a lot… we can do the interviews somewhere else.”
Despite his frustration, Verstappen agreed to engage with the media outside the formal press room. However, due to his commitment to TV broadcasters, he only answered questions briefly while walking from the media center to the TV pen.
Hamilton and Norris Defend Max Verstappen
Both Norris and Hamilton stood in solidarity with Verstappen.
Hamilton, critical of the FIA’s punishment, called it “a bit of a joke.” He added, “I certainly wouldn’t be doing it, and I hope Max doesn’t do it.”
Norris echoed similar sentiments, saying the penalty was “pretty unfair.”
Future Impact on Verstappen’s Career
Verstappen’s discontent with the situation extended beyond the Singapore GP. He admitted that such incidents could influence his future in Formula 1. “These kinds of things definitely decide my future as well,” he said. The Dutch driver has been vocal about not wanting to race into his 40s, like some of his peers, and with success already under his belt, dealing with what he described as “silly” matters was taking a toll.
“For me, at one point, when it’s enough, it’s enough,” Verstappen said, hinting that such distractions might lead him to exit the sport sooner rather than later. “It’s not a problem because Formula 1 will go on without me, but it’s also not a problem for me. So it’s how it is.”
Despite his growing frustration, Verstappen remains committed to the sport, but it’s clear that ongoing tensions with the FIA could play a role in determining how long he continues his career in Formula 1.
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