Formula 1 is in turmoil following the controversial incident between Max Verstappen and George Russell at the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix.
The collision, which many believe was intentional, has sparked a wave of criticism of the Dutch driver, whose aggressive driving is once again at the centre of debate.
Is Verstappen marking a shift in his strategy of restraint? Or will he continue to be F1’s ‘bad boy’? The reactions from drivers and team principals have been strong, and the atmosphere is as tense as ever.
The incident occurred in the closing laps of the Spanish Grand Prix. Verstappen, after being ordered to give way to Russell, appeared to give way, but accelerated and collided with the Briton’s Mercedes. Images of the collision, at 225 km/h, circulated on social media, sparking outrage. George Russell did not hesitate: “It was deliberate. I don’t understand what went through his head. It’s a maneuver that you don’t see in F1, but in racing simulators.” The Mercedes driver added that such actions are not only dangerous, but also send a negative message to young people who dream of becoming drivers.
Seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton also weighed in. Recalling his bitter rivalry with Verstappen in 2021, Hamilton said: “Nothing has changed since then. Max still drives as if the rules don’t apply to him.” This echoed criticism from other drivers, including Lando Norris, who joked that Verstappen’s move was worthy of a Mario Kart film. Even race winner Oscar Piastri expressed his bewilderment: “It was not a small intervention, but I don’t have all the details.”
Team principals also weighed in. Mercedes’ Toto Wolff declined to elaborate, but made it clear the move was “unnecessary.” Red Bull boss Christian Horner defended Verstappen, saying: “He’s racing on the limit, and everyone knows what it’s like to fight wheel-to-wheel with him.” However, the FIA did not ignore the incident: Verstappen was handed a 10-second penalty and three points on his super license, leaving him just one point away from a possible race ban.
This is not an isolated incident. Similar incidents in Budapest and Qatar last year, as well as his rivalry with Hamilton in 2021, illustrate a trend in Verstappen’s driving style. Is this simply a sign of his thirst for victory, or is he crossing the line into unsportsmanlike behaviour? The F1 community is divided, but criticism on social media has been fierce. “Max is a danger to the sport,” wrote one user on X, while others defended his passion and talent.
With 15 races remaining, the question is: will Verstappen change his approach? The pressure is mounting and the FIA needs to rise to the challenge of ensuring safety and fairness on track. Have your say! Is Verstappen a misunderstood genius or an unnecessary risk?
