Max Verstappen makes daring FIA promise with F1 champ close to being banned…read more
Max Verstappen has vowed to continue driving in his signature aggressive style in the 2025 Formula 1 season, despite being perilously close to facing a race ban due to accumulating penalty points. The Red Bull Racing driver is currently only four penalty points away from a suspension, which would significantly jeopardize his chances of defending his Drivers’ Championship title.
Verstappen’s approach to racing has always been bold, with his fierce competitive spirit often leading to moments of controversy. Throughout the 2024 season, his aggressive driving on the track garnered attention for both its brilliance and its contentious nature. Despite only securing two victories in the final 14 races of the season, Verstappen held off a strong challenge from McLaren’s Lando Norris to clinch the World Championship. His success was not only a result of his consistent performance, but also the strategic use of bold moves that forced his competitors into difficult situations, costing them valuable points. These tactics, while effective in his pursuit of the title, have led to several on-track incidents and penalties, pushing him closer to the danger zone of a race ban.
With the 2025 season on the horizon, Verstappen has made it clear that he will not alter his style of racing. His refusal to dial back his aggressive approach has sparked a range of reactions within the F1 community. Some argue that Verstappen’s no-holds-barred attitude is part of what makes him a standout driver, one capable of making daring overtakes and maximizing his opportunities on track. Others, however, caution that his uncompromising style could eventually backfire, particularly if he continues to accumulate penalty points at the rate he has in recent seasons.
In F1, drivers accumulate penalty points for infractions such as dangerous driving, collisions, and blocking other competitors. If a driver reaches 12 penalty points within a 12-month period, they are handed a race ban. Verstappen is currently just four points shy of reaching this limit, an alarming statistic for a driver who has been at the forefront of the sport’s competitive field. A race ban would not only disrupt his bid for another title but could also damage his reputation as a relentless champion.
Despite the looming threat of suspension, Verstappen remains undeterred. His commitment to his driving style reflects his broader philosophy of racing: to push the limits and take calculated risks. Red Bull Racing’s strong car performance in recent seasons has given Verstappen the confidence to continue with his approach, believing that his driving is not only part of his identity but also essential to his dominance in the sport.
The 2024 season was a testament to Verstappen’s resilience and tactical brilliance, as he overcame a season filled with challenges, including the rise of new contenders such as Norris. Verstappen’s ability to consistently perform, even without dominating every race, proved that he is a master of managing a season and securing critical points when it matters most. However, his aggressive driving also caught the eye of the FIA, which handed him several penalties for dangerous maneuvers, a factor that could come back to haunt him as he heads into the new season.
As the start of the 2025 campaign approaches, Verstappen’s attitude towards racing is clear: he will not back down or soften his approach, even if it means risking more penalties. His boldness has defined his career so far, and he seems determined to carry that mentality into the new season, regardless of the potential consequences. While his driving style has undoubtedly played a key role in his success, the pressure will be on him to balance risk and reward in a season where the stakes have never been higher.
