The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has formally issued a warning to Red Bull Racing following the team’s controversial move to file a petition against the penalty imposed on Max Verstappen during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. According to sources close to the governing body, FIA officials viewed the team’s recent statements and actions as a direct challenge to the authority of race stewards, and cautioned that continued dissent could potentially lead to further disciplinary measures — including possible suspension from future events.
The controversy stems from a five-second time penalty given to Max Verstappen during the Saudi Grand Prix for a track limits infringement and what race stewards described as “unsportsmanlike conduct” during a defensive maneuver. Red Bull, dissatisfied with the ruling, submitted a formal petition for a right to review, citing new evidence and expressing strong disapproval of the decision in post-race comments.
Team Principal Christian Horner voiced his frustration shortly after the race, suggesting that the penalty was “inconsistent with prior rulings” and arguing that Verstappen had been unfairly targeted. “We’re not here to play politics,” Horner stated. “We want clarity and consistency. What happened in Jeddah was neither.”
In the wake of Red Bull’s remarks and the formal petition, the FIA issued a cautionary letter reminding the team of its obligations under the International Sporting Code, particularly Article 12.2, which deals with misconduct and bringing the sport into disrepute. The letter reportedly emphasized that while teams have the right to seek a review, public accusations of bias or unfair treatment without substantial proof risk undermining the integrity of the championship.
Leave a Reply