F1: Verstappen Says Controversial Move on Russel ‘Not Right… Emotions Can Run High’

Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen has admitted that his collision with George Russell during the Spanish Grand Prix 'was not right'. The incident took place on Lap 64, when Verstappen attempted an aggressive overtake that resulted in contact with Russell’s Mercedes. Race stewards reviewed the move and found Verstappen at fault, handing him a 10-second time penalty. The penalty cost him a potential podium, dropping him from third to 10th in the final standings. The crash brought an unfortunate end to what had been a competitive race weekend for Verstappen.

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Verstappen in the post said: 'We had an exciting strategy and good race in Barcelona, till the safety car came out. Our tyre choice to the end and some moves after the safety car restart fuelled my frustration, leading to a move that was not right and shouldn’t have happened. I always give everything out there for the team and emotions can run high. You win some together, you lose some together. See you in Montreal.'

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In addition to the time penalty, the FIA awarded Verstappen three penalty points on his super licence. This brings him dangerously close to a one-race suspension, with just one more offence likely to trigger a ban. Red Bull Racing must now carefully manage Verstappen’s aggressive driving style to protect his championship hopes in the remaining races of the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Despite the setback in Spain, Max Verstappen remains a strong contender in the 2025 F1 title race. He holds third place in the drivers' standings with 137 points. Earlier race wins in Japan and Emilia Romagna show he has the pace to win.

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The focus now turns to the 2025 Canadian Grand Prix, set for 13–15 June at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal. Known for its fast straights and unpredictable weather, the track offers Verstappen and Red Bull Racing a chance to bounce back.