Max Verstappen Accuses FIA of Favoritism After Shocking Decision on Russell’s Bahrain Breach
Max Verstappen has publicly criticized the FIA following their controversial decision to not penalize George Russell despite an apparent breach during the Bahrain Grand Prix. The Red Bull driver, who endured a frustrating race and finished sixth, didn’t hold back when speaking to the press post-race.
Verstappen, who struggled with balance issues and a slow pit stop, said “everything that could go wrong did go wrong” in Bahrain. But the biggest frustration came after the race, when the FIA announced that George Russell would not be penalized for using DRS (Drag Reduction System) outside of the permitted zone.
The Dutchman was calm but clearly critical of the decision, stating:
“I don’t understand how these rules work anymore. Russell opened his DRS illegally, and yet the FIA lets it slide. If it had been me or someone else, would the outcome have been the same? It feels like there are different standards for different drivers.”
Russell, who finished second, was investigated for allegedly activating DRS while being more than a second behind the car in front, which goes against the regulations. Though the FIA confirmed that Russell’s DRS was open for 37 meters-on a straight that stretches 700 meters-they ruled no sporting advantage was gained.
According to the stewards, Russell accidentally triggered DRS while attempting a radio call. They acknowledged technical malfunctions in Russell’s car, including issues with brake systems and electronic components. These forced him to use a manual override button, which also activates DRS, leading to the unintended breach.
Despite a 0.02-second gain from the DRS use, Russell reportedly lost 0.28 seconds in the following corner, which the FIA accepted as sufficient compensation.
Still, Verstappen remained unconvinced:
“Whether it’s a mistake or not, rules are rules. If we start bending them based on context or intention, where does it end? This doesn’t feel like equal treatment.”
The FIA’s decision has sparked debate among fans and pundits, especially given Verstappen’s past penalties for much smaller infractions. With Russell now closing in on Verstappen in the drivers’ standings, tensions are set to escalate further as the championship battle heats up.
