In an unexpected twist following the explosive events at the Spanish Grand Prix, former Formula 1 world champion Nico Rosberg has publicly criticized Max Verstappen, suggesting the Red Bull driver may have intentionally caused a collision with rival George Russell during one of the race’s most controversial moments.
Rosberg, known for his blunt analysis and unfiltered commentary, didn’t hold back as he dissected Verstappen’s actions, claiming that slowing down in a dangerous spot to obstruct a rival was “reckless, unsportsmanlike, and damaging to the spirit of racing.”
“Slowing down and intentionally crashing into the opponent is a very bad action,” Rosberg stated during his Sky Sports F1 post-race appearance. “If that’s what Max did, it’s unacceptable, and the FIA must take a hard look at the consequences.”
The Incident That Sparked Outrage
The controversy centers around Lap 37 of the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix, where Verstappen was seen allegedly slowing down mid-corner, which led to a light but significant contact with George Russell’s Mercedes. While Verstappen maintained his position, Russell was forced off the track, dropping several places and losing valuable championship points.
At the time, the stewards classified the incident as a racing incident, and no penalties were handed out. But as new footage and team telemetry emerged, the narrative began to shift. Public opinion was split, with many fans accusing Verstappen of deliberate interference, while others defended his aggressive style as part of modern F1 racing.
Rosberg Speaks – A Voice of Experience
Rosberg, who famously battled Lewis Hamilton in one of F1’s fiercest teammate rivalries, was quick to draw parallels.
“I know the pressure of a title fight. I know how intense it gets,” he said. “But the line must be drawn. If Max truly slowed down just to block or provoke contact, then that’s not racing—that’s retaliation.”
Rosberg emphasized that the FIA should use the data available to make a clear example if any wrongdoing is proven.
“You don’t get to play demolition derby in a Formula 1 car. The rules apply to everyone, even world champions.”
Max Verstappen’s Response Stuns the Paddock
Just hours later, Verstappen responded to Rosberg’s accusations in his typically confident—yet surprisingly composed—manner.
“I respect Nico as a world champion,” Verstappen said. “But he’s watching from the commentary booth now, not behind the wheel. He doesn’t know what I saw, what I felt. I didn’t slow down intentionally. I was defending. That’s my job.”
In a moment that shocked even the most seasoned reporters, Verstappen then added:
“I’ve raced hard my whole life, but I’ve never needed to crash someone to win. Maybe Nico did — but I don’t.”
The crowd fell silent. The tension in the media room was palpable. Verstappen had just subtly accused Rosberg of the very thing he was being blamed for, referencing the infamous 2016 Austrian GP collision between Rosberg and Hamilton.
The Experts Weigh In
Analysts and former drivers were quick to weigh in on the debate, with opinions split.
Martin Brundle commented:
“There’s definitely movement from Max that doesn’t look organic. Whether it was intentional or just over-defending, the FIA should review it.”
Meanwhile, Jenson Button said:
“Rosberg calling it out shows how serious this is. Max’s response was savage but calculated. He’s defending his legacy now.”
Fans Divided, Social Media Explodes
Social media has been ablaze since the incident. On Twitter (X), hashtags like #VerstappenCrashGate and #RosbergVsMax have been trending worldwide. Fans are polarizing into camps:
Some accuse Max of foul play and demand a Super License penalty.
Others believe it’s just “hard racing” and defend Verstappen as a “true gladiator” of the sport.
An online poll conducted by Autosport revealed that 62% of fans believe Verstappen’s move was intentional, while 38% say it was “part of racing.”
FIA Investigating?
While no official statement has yet been made, sources within the paddock suggest that the FIA is now re-reviewing the incident after “new and substantial data” was presented by the Mercedes team on Monday morning.
If the FIA determines that Verstappen’s move was intentional, the penalty could be a loss of Super License points—a critical issue given Verstappen’s current standing.
What Happens Next?
With the next race just around the corner, all eyes are on the FIA and how they choose to handle this volatile situation. Nico Rosberg has ignited the fire, and Max Verstappen has poured fuel on it with a response that could go down as one of the most dramatic press conference moments in recent F1 history.
One thing is clear: The rivalry between Russell and Verstappen has reached a boiling point. And with Rosberg now involved, the drama may just be getting started.
Stay tuned.
