3 June 2025 — Reigning Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen has conceded that his late-race clash with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix was “not right and shouldn’t have happened,” following widespread criticism and a penalty from race stewards.
The incident occurred on Lap 64, when Verstappen—already visibly frustrated after being placed on hard tyres for the final stint and earlier contact with Charles Leclerc and Russell at Turn 1—was instructed by his race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, to let Russell pass. Although he appeared to comply initially, Verstappen seemed to deliberately accelerate into Russell’s Mercedes at Turn 5, sparking controversy.
Former World Champion Nico Rosberg suggested Verstappen should have been disqualified, but stewards instead handed him a 10-second penalty, dropping him from 5th to 10th. Verstappen also received three penalty points on his FIA Super Licence, bringing his total to 11 out of a maximum 12—just one point short of an automatic race ban. His next points are due to expire only after the Austrian Grand Prix.
Initially defiant in post-race interviews—quipping to Russell “next time, I’ll bring tissues”—Verstappen has since taken to social media with a more reflective tone, though he stopped short of issuing a direct apology.
Max Verstappen’s Statement in Full:
“We had an exciting strategy and good race in Barcelona, till the safety car came out.
Our tyre choice to the end and some moves after the safety car restart fuelled my frustration, leading to a move that was not right and shouldn’t have happened.
I always give everything out there for the team, and emotions can run high. You win some together, you lose some together. See you in Montreal.”
The next round of the Formula 1 World Championship takes place in Montreal, Canada, where all eyes will be on Verstappen as he races under the shadow of a potential ban.
