Verstappen to the Limit: The Sanction That Could Take Him Off the Track
Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is in a delicate situation following his incident with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix. A 10-second penalty and three points on his FIA superlicense put him on the verge of an automatic race suspension.
The collision with Russell, which Verstappen described as “incorrect” on social media, cost him dearly. Now, with 11 points on his super license in a 12-month period, he only needs one more point to be suspended.
This means that Verstappen, known for his bold and on-the-limit style, will have to be extremely careful in the Canadian Grand Prix and at Red Bull’s home race in Austria, as two of his points will expire on June 30, leaving him only three points away from suspension for the British Grand Prix.
This situation is reminiscent of Kevin Magnussen, who missed the Azerbaijan Grand Prix last year for accumulating 12 points. Oliver Bearman replaced him on that occasion.
Penalty points are awarded based on the severity of the incident and the circumstances, although the interpretation of the regulations may vary depending on the stewards. Verstappen’s transgression in Spain leaves him no margin for error.
Types of Infractions That Could Cost You a Career
Here are the infractions that could prevent you from competing:
Causing a collision: It’s the most common infraction. The incident with Russell was categorized in this category.
Forcing another driver off the track: Verstappen has exceeded the limits in the past, which could be a problem in Canada.
Leaving the track and gaining an advantage: Although it generally implies a time penalty, Magnussen received three points in Miami for this reason.
Infractions under yellow or red flags: Occurrences such as speeding under these conditions can result in penalties.
Driving unnecessarily slowly: Verstappen was penalized for this reason in Qatar, which led to a dispute with Russell.
Safety car or virtual safety car infringement: Exceeding speed limits under these conditions can also result in penalties.
Max Verstappen, currently third in the championship, is 39 points behind Lando Norris.The Red Bull team could be under pressure at the Canadian Grand Prix.
