The Formula 1 world was shocked this weekend by a striking statement from a Sky Sports F1 pundit , who suggested that Max Verstappen – the multiple world champion and Red Bull’s poster boy – should be demoted after his disappointing performance at the Dutch Grand Prix .

A nightmare in your own home

The Dutch GP in Zandvoort had been marked in fans’ calendars for weeks as the perfect opportunity for Verstappen to once again demonstrate his supremacy for his own national team. Tens of thousands of supporters colored the stands orange, ready to witness a masterclass from their compatriot. But what followed was a rare low point in the Dutchman’s career.

Poor strategic choices, inconsistent lap times, and uncharacteristic mistakes caused Verstappen to lose his rhythm. Where a dominant victory was expected, the Red Bull driver found himself battling in the midfield. The crowd reacted with bewilderment and disappointment.

Harsh judgement at Sky F1

Afterwards, a Sky F1 analyst spared no words:

This isn’t the Verstappen we’re used to. With a performance like that, any other driver would be immediately demoted or replaced. Red Bull needs to seriously think twice.

The statement came as a bombshell. Verstappen is not only Red Bull’s figurehead, but also the key to the team’s success in recent seasons. Yet, the expert’s fierce criticism made it clear that even the sport’s greats are not immune to harsh judgments.

Fans divided

Reactions on social media were quick to follow. Some fans felt the statement was overblown: “One bad race doesn’t erase Max’s entire legacy,” they said. But others were more stern: “If this had been Pérez, everyone would have called for his departure. Verstappen should be held to the same standard.”

Numerous posts appeared on X and Instagram, ranging from angry to mocking:

• It’s unbelievable that Max is succumbing to this. Relegation might be a step too far, but he needs a wake-up call.

• “We don’t want privileges. Mistakes are mistakes, even if your name is Max Verstappen.”

What does this mean for Verstappen?

That Red Bull would actually demote its star driver is highly unlikely, but the discussion highlights an important point: expectations surrounding Verstappen are now inhumanly high . One bad Sunday is enough to call his status into question.

The Dutch Grand Prix likely won’t decide the championship, but it has certainly damaged the Dutchman’s image. For Verstappen, the task is now clear: return to his dominant form as quickly as possible and demonstrate that calls for relegation are nothing more than a hysterical overreaction.