Max Verstappen Issues Strong Warning: Must Be Strictly Controlled

Max Verstappen faces a tense period in Formula 1 as he is just one penalty point away from receiving a race ban. After a collision with George Russell in the Spanish Grand Prix, Verstappen collected three penalty points, pushing his total near the eight-point limit that triggers an automatic suspension.

Two of his penalty points are set to expire at the end of the month, but until after the upcoming events in Canada on June 15 and Austria on June 29, he remains at risk. This situation means Verstappen must approach the next two weekends with caution to avoid missing a race.

Former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert commented on the mounting pressure for Verstappen. Herbert stated that the Dutch driver now needs to adopt a more measured approach as he battles to stay within the rules.

According to Herbert, even a minor error or judgment call could result in another penalty point and a race ban. Herbert acknowledged Verstappen’s skill on track, saying he is among the smartest drivers in Formula 1 and often manages to use the rules to his advantage.

Even so, the focus now must be on driving smart and avoiding further scrutiny from the race stewards. Verstappen’s situation comes at a tough moment in the championship fight.

Following the time penalty in Spain, he dropped from fourth to tenth in the race results. This setback now leaves him 49 points adrift of current championship leader Oscar Piastri, who holds 186 points, while Verstappen sits third with 137 points.

Lando Norris is second with 176 points. The pressure is higher than ever as Verstappen, who has been the target as a reigning champion, is now playing catch-up in the standings.

Despite these challenges, Herbert believes Verstappen remains a title contender. With several races left and recent strong performances, any misstep from McLaren drivers Piastri or Norris could allow Verstappen to close the gap.

However, Herbert emphasized that Verstappen must watch his on-track behavior, especially aggressive moves that might attract more penalties. Every race now requires a careful balance between racing for points and protecting his race eligibility.

RacingNews365 continues to highlight reactions to Verstappen’s recent clash with Russell, which has sparked discussion among fans and analysts. Pundits are also debating Lewis Hamilton’s pace with Ferrari after recent results, which some see as critical in the context of championship dynamics.

Other news from the paddock includes talk about Red Bull’s latest promotional stunts, Fred Vasseur’s comments on technical priorities over the season, and growing questions about Verstappen’s teammate situation.

In the current standings, McLaren leads the team championship with 362 points, ahead of Ferrari on 165 and Mercedes on 159. Red Bull, with Verstappen and new partner Yuki Tsunoda, is fourth with 144 points.

In the coming weeks, the F1 circus heads to Canada and Austria, both crucial rounds for the title race and for Verstappen’s hopes to keep the pressure on leaders while staying clear of penalties. With so much at stake, Verstappen’s every move will be under close watch, both on the track and off it.

The next few races could play a pivotal role in the championship outcome, as well as in determining whether Verstappen’s aggressive style can be harnessed and controlled at a critical time in his Formula 1 career.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.