“Verstappen Slams ‘Silly’ Sanctions, Suggests Formula One Future in Doubt”
World champion Max Verstappen has dismissed his punishment for swearing as “silly” and hinted that it might speed up his departure from Formula One. After finishing second to Lando Norris at the Singapore Grand Prix, the controversy over a community service order issued to him continued to dominate discussions. Verstappen, 26, expressed frustration, saying that such issues influence his future in the sport, especially when he feels he can’t be himself. The Red Bull driver was penalized by the FIA for using foul language during Thursday’s live drivers’ press conference.
In protest, Verstappen gave minimal responses or simply said “no comment” during the official FIA press conference after Saturday’s qualifying. Following Sunday’s race, he again limited his remarks but later held a more detailed press session with select media at Red Bull’s hospitality suite. Speaking to the BBC, Verstappen explained that dealing with such incidents is exhausting and not how he envisions his career continuing.
Although chasing his fourth world title this season, Verstappen has previously stated that he doesn’t plan a long career in Formula One. He’s interested in exploring other forms of racing once his Red Bull contract expires in 2028. He remarked that F1 will carry on without him, and if he’s not allowed to fully express himself, he would prefer not to speak, as becoming robotic is not how the sport should function.
Former world champion Nico Rosberg, acting as a TV pundit in Singapore, noted that Verstappen is “pushing the limits” of the FIA’s patience by refusing to answer questions at the press conference. Rosberg pointed out that drivers are contractually required to participate, and Verstappen is treading a fine line. Despite this, most drivers side with Verstappen, and with four weeks until the next race in Austin, tensions may ease. Rosberg added, “It’ll be interesting to see how this unfolds.”