The Formula 1 world was left stunned this weekend after the FIA issued a surprising explanation for what it deemed a “violation” committed by Max Verstappen during the Miami Grand Prix. The incident, which many fans initially dismissed as routine or minor, has now become one of the most talked-about controversies in the paddock—largely due to what many are calling a “bizarre” and unclear justification by the sport’s governing body.
It all started during the final laps of Saturday’s Sprint Race, when Verstappen was shown the black-and-white warning flag—indicating unsportsmanlike behavior—after an intense battle with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. Commentators and fans were initially confused, as there was no immediate replay or clarification about the specific nature of the offense.
However, hours later, the FIA released a brief statement citing “positioning on the track in a manner inconsistent with Article 27.4” of the Sporting Regulations. The article refers to a driver’s obligation to not make erratic moves or cause a collision when defending a position. What baffled many was the FIA’s elaboration, which suggested that Verstappen had “lingered too long in the middle of the track in a zone where no direct overtaking attempt was being made.”
This explanation was widely criticized as vague and contradictory, especially in the high-stakes world of F1, where aggressive defending and strategic driving are part of the sport’s DNA. Verstappen himself responded in disbelief after hearing the reasoning.
“I honestly don’t know what they mean,” Verstappen said. “If we can’t defend or drive tactically anymore, then what’s the point? I stayed within the rules and didn’t push anyone off track. It just feels like they’re trying to invent reasons.”
The two-time world champion also suggested that inconsistency in stewarding decisions has become a growing issue in F1.
“Sometimes you get penalized, sometimes you don’t, and no one really knows why. If that’s a violation, then half the grid should’ve been flagged today.”
Several former drivers and pundits backed Verstappen’s assessment. Sky Sports commentator and ex-racer Martin Brundle remarked,
“It’s one of the strangest calls I’ve seen. Max didn’t swerve, didn’t brake-test anyone, didn’t force another car off. If this is a warning-worthy offense, we’re heading into dangerous territory where normal racing gets penalized.”
Social media also erupted with memes and commentary. Fans labeled the decision as “FIA nonsense” and accused the officials of “over-policing the race”. The hashtag #LetThemRace began trending, reflecting growing frustration with how certain overtaking and defending maneuvers are being scrutinized more than ever.
In response to the backlash, an FIA spokesperson attempted to clarify the decision further, saying:
“The warning was not for a specific action but rather a pattern of behavior that, if continued, could have resulted in a penalty. It’s a preventative measure more than a punitive one.”
But that statement only added to the confusion. Critics questioned how a “pattern” could be evaluated mid-race and what metrics the stewards were using to make such calls. Team Red Bull has reportedly sought private clarification to ensure the ruling doesn’t set a precedent that could stifle competitive driving.
As Formula 1 moves forward, many are calling for greater transparency and consistency in stewarding, especially as battles at the front of the grid intensify. The Verstappen incident has reignited debates about whether the FIA is doing enough to let drivers race freely while still maintaining safety and fairness.
With the next Grand Prix just around the corner, all eyes will be on whether the FIA can restore confidence—or if their “bizarre” explanation will only fuel more controversy.
