The FIA has delivered its official ruling after Max Verstappen erupted in anger over what he called an “unacceptable” and “so dangerous” incident during Free Practice 2 at the Monaco Grand Prix. Following a thorough review of the footage and telemetry, the sport’s governing body confirmed a severe penalty would be applied to those involved.

The reigning World Champion was left furious after encountering slow-moving traffic through the high-speed Swimming Pool section on Friday, with Yuki Tsunoda and Sauber’s Gabriel Bortoleto directly in his path. Verstappen was forced to back off sharply, later telling his Red Bull team over the radio:

Mate: Unbelievable, these guys! So dangerous

Moments later, he added: “I know it’s only practice, but for me that’s unacceptable, that kind of impeding. It’s so dangerous in that swimming pool.”

Verstappen was not the only one affected by similar incidents. Earlier in the day, Lewis Hamilton narrowly avoided contact with Pierre Gasly’s Alpine in an equally tense moment during FP1, which drew fierce criticism from pundits including Karun Chandhok and Jenson Button.

“Following an investigation into multiple impeding incidents during Free Practice at the Monaco Grand Prix, the stewards have determined that both drivers and their teams failed to uphold Article 37.5 of the Sporting Regulations,” the FIA stated.

“Given the nature of the circuit and the high-speed zone where the incidents occurred, these actions are deemed especially dangerous. As such, a three-place grid penalty will be issued to Yuki Tsunoda and Gabriel Bortoleto for impeding during practice, alongside an official reprimand for their respective teams for lack of communication.”

The FIA added that further incidents of this kind would trigger harsher sanctions moving forward.

“In light of repeated near-misses in high-risk zones, we are reinforcing our commitment to safety and fair competition. Teams must exercise maximum awareness and ensure drivers are informed promptly to avoid dangerous scenarios.”

While Verstappen did not speak to the media following the FIA’s verdict, Red Bull sources indicated that he welcomed the ruling and hopes it sets a precedent for stricter enforcement on street circuits like Monaco.

With qualifying crucial at this tight and unforgiving track, the FIA’s swift action may serve as a strong deterrent for drivers pushing the limits during the final practice sessions and a clear reminder that even in practice, danger has consequences.