Max Verstappen has been a dominant force in F1 since 2021. With 53 victories and three consecutive world titles, the Dutchman is unstoppable. His exceptional driving skills have kept him head and shoulders above the competition. Although the triple champion has got a recent challenge from McLaren’s Lando Norris, he still amasses a decent lead to lift the world title. He yet again showcased his driving masterclass on a humid Singapore weekend, driving a problem-ridden RB20. Despite the challenges, he finished seconds, claiming another podium.
However, the highlight of the Singapore GP was Verstappen’s pre-race conference. The Dutchman used an inappropriate word during the interaction, prompting strict action by FIA. The regulatory body penalized him with a community service penalty as they tried to limit the use of bad words. However, Verstappen deemed it ridiculous, suggesting that such scrutiny could be a deciding factor in his F1 retirement.
“Enough is enough,” Max Verstappen Hints At F1 Retirement After FIA’s “Bad Words” Schooling
Max Verstappen secured a second-place finish behind McLaren’s Lando Norris at the Marina Bay Circuit, which reduced his championship lead to 52 points. However, the race was not the only subject of conversation afterward. Verstappen’s grievances with the FIA were highlighted after he faced a penalty for using inappropriate language during a pre-race press conference. The Red Bull driver was handed a community service sentence due to his explicit comments regarding the car.
When asked if instances like this would impact his long-term Formula One career, Verstappen aired his concerns openly. He said the frequent need to handle disciplinary procedures was taxing, prompting him to reconsider participating in the sport. Despite his significant success, which included three world championships and the chase of a fourth, he said that his frequent clashes with the FIA were detracting from his pleasure of racing.
Moreover, Verstappen highlighted that while winning championships is exciting, developing a genuine respect for the sport is just as vital. He stated that the continuing demands and what he regarded as unimportant concerns were overshadowing his happiness. Finally, he claimed that his frequent disagreements with the FIA may affect his longevity in F1, implying that a future filled with such diversions could not appeal to him.
Helmut Marko Backs Verstappen Amid Clean Speech Conundrum
Helmut Marko recently discussed Max Verstappen’s perspective, underlining that Verstappen must be taken seriously given his outstanding performances in Formula 1. Marko emphasized that while Verstappen values victory, he must also enjoy the sport. If that enjoyment wanes, Verstappen is the sort of person who might legitimately leave the sport, and when he says “that’s it,” he means it. However, Marko hoped that the present circumstances would not force Verstappen to retire early.
Further, Marko also addressed the current controversy around Verstappen’s words, which were regarded as rude. He feels the criticism aimed against Verstappen is unwarranted and highlights the existence of double standards. According to Marko, Verstappen’s statements were not directed at a specific individual but rather at a car, and he delivered them in a joking manner. Marko admitted that if more controls are implemented in the future, Verstappen may approach news conferences with greater caution, but he believes the criticism has been overdone.