FIA President gives Max Verstappen UNEXPECTED PUNISHMENT after Radio argument with Russell in Canada !!
The 2025 Canadian Grand Prix delivered high-octane drama both on and off the track, as a contentious radio exchange between Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Mercedes’ George Russell culminated in an unexpected penalty issued by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The incident, which unfolded during a chaotic race weekend in Montreal, has sparked widespread debate among fans, drivers, and pundits, reigniting discussions about sportsmanship, radio conduct, and the FIA’s regulatory approach in Formula 1.
The controversy began during the second free practice session (FP2) at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, where George Russell, fresh off a strong showing for Mercedes, topped the timesheets. Verstappen, running closely behind, expressed frustration over team radio, accusing Russell of impeding him during a flying lap. The Dutchman’s remarks were laced with expletives, a violation of the FIA’s tightened regulations on driver language introduced earlier in 2025. Russell responded sharply, questioning Verstappen’s professionalism and escalating the verbal sparring match. The exchange, broadcast live, captivated audiences but drew the ire of race officials, who have been cracking down on unsportsmanlike conduct following similar incidents in prior races.
As the race weekend progressed, tensions simmered. Verstappen, already under scrutiny for his aggressive driving style, finished FP2 just behind Russell, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive qualifying session. However, the FIA’s post-session review focused not on track action but on the drivers’ radio communications. Citing Verstappen’s use of profanity and inflammatory comments toward a fellow competitor, the stewards summoned the four-time world champion for a hearing. Russell, though not blameless in the verbal joust, escaped formal reprimand, as his remarks were deemed less severe.
In a surprising turn of events, FIA President Ben Sulayem intervened directly, announcing a penalty that caught the paddock off guard. Verstappen was handed a five-place grid drop for the Canadian Grand Prix, coupled with a €25,000 fine and two penalty points on his superlicense. The decision was justified under Article 12.2.1 of the FIA’s International Sporting Code, which penalizes behavior deemed detrimental to the sport’s reputation. Ben Sulayem emphasized the need for drivers to uphold professionalism, particularly in light of Formula 1’s global audience, which includes younger fans. “Our sport thrives on competition, but it must be conducted with respect,” he stated in a press release. “Verbal attacks over team radio undermine the values we promote.”
The penalty sparked immediate backlash from Red Bull. Team principal Christian Horner called the decision “disproportionate,” arguing that heated radio exchanges are part of Formula 1’s raw emotion. “Max is a passionate driver, and these moments happen in the heat of battle,” Horner told reporters. “To single him out with such a harsh penalty feels like overreach.” Verstappen himself was defiant, refusing to apologize for his comments and suggesting the FIA’s focus on language was misguided. “If they want to police every word we say, maybe we should all stay silent,” he quipped, echoing sentiments he expressed earlier in the season regarding the FIA’s swearing ban.
Conversely, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff supported the FIA’s stance, praising Russell for maintaining composure under pressure. “George handled himself well, and the FIA is right to set boundaries,” Wolff said. Some drivers, including McLaren’s Lando Norris, took a neutral stance, acknowledging the intensity of competition but urging for consistency in penalty enforcement. “We all say things in the moment, but the rules are the rules,” Norris noted.
The grid penalty significantly altered Verstappen’s race strategy, dropping him to sixth place for the start of the Canadian Grand Prix. Despite the setback, the Red Bull driver delivered a masterful performance, clawing his way back to a podium finish behind race winner Russell and McLaren’s Oscar Piastri. However, the incident has left lingering questions about Verstappen’s temperament and the FIA’s regulatory priorities. Critics argue that penalizing radio outbursts distracts from more pressing issues, such as track safety and inconsistent stewarding decisions.
The Verstappen-Russell feud, now amplified by the FIA’s intervention, adds another chapter to their rivalry, which flared earlier in the season at the Spanish Grand Prix. With the 2025 championship battle heating up, all eyes will be on how Verstappen responds to this latest controversy. Will he temper his fiery approach, or double down on his uncompromising style? For now, the Canadian Grand Prix has cemented its place as a pivotal moment in the season, highlighting the fine line between passion and professionalism in Formula 1’s high-stakes arena.
