The Formula 1 world has again been brought into a stir, this time through an unexpected announcement by Victoria Verstappen, the sister of four-time world champion Max Verstappen. In a recent post on social media, Victoria shared a cryptic message about her brother, who fueled the speculations about his future at Red Bull Racing and in Formula 1. Her words not only caught the attention of fans, but also those of FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who, according to sources, was so alerted that he threatened to forbid her to attend the next Grand Prix. This development comes at a time when Max Verstappen is under a magnifying glass because of his performance and an imminent suspension due to penalty points.
Victoria, who has always had a close relationship with her brother, hinted in her announcement that Max may be considering reviewing his future in Formula 1. Although she did not praise details, she suggested that Max, who chases his fifth world title in 2025, is struggling with the intense pressure of the sport and the recent controversies around the FIA. Her post, which went viral on platforms such as X, was: “Max has always fought for what he believes, but maybe it’s time for a new road.” These words have led to speculation about a possible switch to another racing class, such as endurance racing, or even a temporary break of Formula 1. Verstappen recently tested a NLS car on the Nürburgring, which further fueled the rumors about a career switch.
The reaction of FIA president Ben Sulayem was remarkably sharp. According to insiders, quoted by GP33, he was displeased with Victoria’s public statements, which he considered undermining for the sport. He would have threatened to deny her access to the Grand Prix of Austria, a home race for Red Bull, if she did not moderate her statements. This threat stems from the tense relationship between the FIA and Verstappen, which is currently at eleven penalty points after a series of incidents, including a controversial collision with George Russell in Spain. At twelve points within a year an automatic suspension follows, a scenario that would seriously harm the title opportunities of Verstappen. The first penalty points, from the Grand Prix of Austria 2024, only expire on July 2, 2025, as a result of which the Dutchman runs on eggs in the coming races.
Victoria’s announcement has further strengthened the already turbulent atmosphere around Verstappen. Fans on X are divided: some support Victoria’s frankness and see her as a voice for Max’s interests, while others think she unnecessarily complicates the situation. The Formula 1-Community has been under the spell of Verstappen’s conflict with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, who is just 49 points in the championship. Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has emphasized in an interview with De Telegraaf that the team does everything to keep Verstappen focused, but the threat of a suspension and the statements of Victoria do not make it easier.
The tensions with the FIA are not new. Earlier this year, Steward Derek Warwick was suspended after inappropriate comments about Verstappen, and the FIA sharpened its rules on language and behavior after Verstappen’s notorious “fucked” ruling in a press conference. These incidents, combined with the recent announcement by Victoria, have led to an unprecedented dynamic around the four -time world champion. Some, such as former driver Juan Pablo Montoya, speculate that the FIA Verstappen may save for the Grand Prix of Austria because of the large Dutch fan base, which could cause riots if their hero is suspended.
While Formula 1 is preparing for the Grand Prix of Canada, the question remains what Victoria’s announcement means exactly for Max’s future. Will he continue to fight for a fifth title, or is he considering a drastic step, as his sister seems to suggest? The threat of a FIA ban for Victoria adds an extra low drama to a season that is already full of tensions. With Red Bull under pressure and McLaren in top shape, the spotlight is on Verstappen and his family fierce than ever. The upcoming races will not only be crucial for the championship, but also for the future of one of the greatest drivers in the history of sport.
