Verstappen Accumulates 11 F1 Penalty Points After Spanish GP Crash

Max Verstappen's frustration during the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix, sparked by Red Bull's decision to fit him with hard tires instead of softer compounds, led to a crash with George Russell and a subsequent 10-second time penalty plus three penalty points on his FIA Super License. This incident has put Verstappen dangerously close to a one-race ban, as he now holds 11 penalty points within the last 12 months, with one more point triggering a suspension. Red Bull has publicly addressed the penalty points system, explaining the potential consequences to fans, while Verstappen's race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, has been criticized for miscommunication that may have exacerbated the situation. Former Haas Team Principal Guenther Steiner and former racing driver Robert Doornbos both blamed Red Bull's strategy and communication for Verstappen's outburst and penalty, highlighting internal team failures. Verstappen is under immense pressure to avoid further penalties while trailing championship leader Oscar Piastri by 49 points, with a race ban potentially devastating his title hopes. Red Bull would have to rely on their junior drivers if Verstappen were banned, complicating their lineup and championship campaign.