Max Verstappen Under Investigation After Azerbaijan Grand Prix Ends in Drama
Max Verstappen faced an investigation following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix for an alleged Virtual Safety Car (VSC) violation. After a thorough review by the race stewards, the Red Bull driver received an official warning but avoided a post-race time penalty.
Verstappen, who finished P5 after a chaotic penultimate lap incident involving Sergio Perez and Carlos Sainz, gained two positions under contentious circumstances. The stewards began investigating whether Verstappen had overtaken cars after the chequered flag while still under VSC conditions, a move that could have seen him penalized. Ultimately, the stewards decided that his actions warranted only a warning.
On-board footage showed Verstappen pulling alongside Lando Norris and George Russell, appearing to congratulate them, further complicating the situation. Despite the controversy, the 26-year-old managed to escape a more severe penalty.
This race weekend in Baku proved challenging for the three-time world champion, who saw an opportunity to regain points from title rival Norris, only to finish behind him in the final standings. Norris, who was eliminated in Q1, managed to secure a better result, compounding Verstappen’s frustrations.
To add to Red Bull’s woes, Sergio Perez missed out on a podium finish after colliding with Carlos Sainz in the final stages of the race. The Mexican driver had been on course for his first podium in 12 races before the incident. McLaren now holds a 20-point lead over Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship as they head into the Singapore Grand Prix.
McLaren’s standout performance in Baku was led by Oscar Piastri, who claimed his second career Grand Prix victory. Reflecting on the team’s rise, Piastri said, “This is one of the best races of my career. From being last when I joined the team to leading the world championship now, it’s a testament to the team’s hard work over the last 18 months.”
Verstappen, though escaping further penalty, will be looking to bounce back and regain momentum as the 2024 season continues.
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