The 2025 Spanish Grand Prix has turned into one of the most dramatic events in recent Formula 1 history, and tensions just reached a new high. Moments after the FIA announced a heavy punishment for reigning World Champion Max Verstappen following his controversial clash with George Russell, Verstappen’s girlfriend, model and public figure Kelly Piquet, broke her silence with a powerful message that immediately went viral:
“You just destroyed the sport.”

These five words, posted to her Instagram story in bold white letters against a black background, were seen by millions within minutes. The post quickly sparked fierce debate across the F1 community and reignited conversations around fairness, favoritism, and the growing intensity of on-track rivalries.

The Incident That Started It All

On Lap 34 of the Spanish Grand Prix, Verstappen and Mercedes driver George Russell were battling for third place when the two made heavy contact going into Turn 1. Russell’s front wing clipped Verstappen’s rear tire, sending both drivers off track. While Verstappen recovered to finish P5, Russell was forced to retire.

Initially, race stewards ruled it a “racing incident,” but after an internal FIA review and team protests led by Mercedes, the governing body revisited the footage and telemetry data. On Tuesday morning, the FIA shocked fans with the announcement:

“Following post-race analysis, Driver #1 (Max Verstappen) has been found at fault for causing an avoidable collision with Driver #63 (George Russell). Verstappen will receive a five-place grid penalty for the next race in Austria, along with two penalty points on his super license.”

Piquet’s Message Sends Shockwaves

Kelly Piquet’s cryptic but pointed reaction added emotional weight to the already heated situation. Her statement — “You just destroyed the sport” — was interpreted by many as a direct message to the FIA, accusing them of being unfair and overstepping.

The Instagram story was later deleted, but not before screenshots had spread across social media platforms. Supporters of Verstappen rallied behind her, accusing the FIA of bowing to pressure from rival teams and media narratives. Critics, on the other hand, condemned the post, suggesting that personal relationships should not be used to challenge regulatory bodies.

Fans and F1 World React

The F1 fanbase, already buzzing with tension from recent controversies, exploded with reactions:

• “Kelly said what many of us are thinking. The FIA has lost the plot.”

• “If this were any other driver, this wouldn’t be happening.”

• “You don’t ‘destroy the sport’ by enforcing rules — you protect it.”

On X (formerly Twitter), hashtags like #JusticeForMax, #FIAcorruption, and #TeamRussell all trended simultaneously, highlighting just how divided the fanbase has become.

Drivers and Teams Weigh In

George Russell remained diplomatic in his response, saying:

“It’s unfortunate. I don’t race to crash anyone, and I don’t think Max does either. But I trust the FIA’s decision. That corner was always going to be tight, but I was ahead.”

Verstappen, visibly frustrated during post-race interviews, refused to acknowledge fault.

“I stand by how I drove. George squeezed, I held my line. These things happen in racing — unless, of course, someone wants to make it personal.”

Red Bull Racing released a short statement, expressing “disappointment” in the FIA’s revised penalty and confirming they are “reviewing legal options.”

Meanwhile, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff praised the decision, calling it “a win for consistency and driver safety.”

A Bigger Picture: Growing Pressure on the FIA

The Spanish GP fallout has reignited long-standing concerns over consistency in FIA rulings. Fans and analysts have repeatedly called for clearer rules and impartial enforcement. Verstappen’s latest penalty, coupled with high-profile incidents earlier in the season, is fueling a perception that decisions are becoming political.

“Formula 1 is teetering on a dangerous edge,” said Sky Sports analyst Damon Hill. “Between rising tempers, team rivalries, and inconsistent stewarding, this sport needs leadership now more than ever.”

What Happens Next?

With Austria just two weeks away, Verstappen will be forced to start the race at a disadvantage — a significant setback in his battle to defend the World Championship. The penalty could also have implications for Red Bull’s Constructors’ Championship aspirations, as rivals McLaren and Mercedes continue to close the gap.

And while the FIA has remained silent on Kelly Piquet’s post, insiders say tensions between the organization and the Red Bull camp are “at an all-time high.”

As for Piquet, her five-word message may be short, but its impact is anything but. Whether seen as a passionate defense of her partner or an inappropriate criticism of racing governance, one thing is clear: the battle off the track is just as fierce as the one on it.