Max Verstappen has been handed a warning by the FIA for a pit lane infraction that occurred during the third practice session of the Dutch Grand Prix. The 26-year-old Red Bull driver, who holds a commanding 78-point lead over McLaren’s Lando Norris in the drivers’ championship, is aiming for his fourth consecutive title. Despite being the heavy favorite, Verstappen hasn’t claimed victory since the Spanish Grand Prix, marking his longest winless streak since 2020.
Heading into the Dutch Grand Prix at Circuit Zandvoort, Verstappen appeared off pace, with Lando Norris securing pole position, beating Verstappen by 0.356 seconds.
The controversy centers around Verstappen’s pit lane conduct. F1 journalist Chris Medland reported that Verstappen received a warning from race control for crossing the white line at the pit exit. The incident occurred when Verstappen overtook Oscar Piastri on the inside and George Russell on the outside of the pit exit, violating the regulations.
The official rules stipulate: “Cars may only leave the pit lane when the green light is on (or sign is displayed).” Verstappen’s maneuver, captured on footage, showed him crossing the white line, an action prohibited by the regulations.
The reaction on social media has been swift and critical. Fans expressed frustration, with one commenting, “The rules don’t apply to Max Verstappen. He should receive a grid penalty; this happens all the time.” Another questioned, “How is crossing the white line not an automatic penalty?” and others suggested, “If it were Hamilton, it would be a three-place grid penalty.”
In contrast, Lewis Hamilton was indeed given a three-place grid penalty after being deemed to have unnecessarily impeded Sergio Perez during Q1 of Saturday’s qualifying session. The stewards’ statement clarified that Hamilton, while attempting to yield for Perez, still impeded the Red Bull driver, resulting in the grid penalty.
The debate continues as fans and analysts weigh in on the fairness and consistency of FIA penalties, with Verstappen’s situation drawing particular scrutiny.
