Max Verstappen Criticized for Podium Conduct at Saudi Arabian GP

Max Verstappen has faced criticism for his behavior on the podium following the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where he finished second behind Oscar Piastri after receiving a five-second penalty for overtaking off track. Former F1 driver and pundit Johnny Herbert labeled Verstappen's actions as 'unprofessional and disrespectful,' particularly noting his reluctance to participate in the customary podium celebrations with Piastri and Charles Leclerc. Herbert argued that Verstappen should have been more gracious in defeat and questioned those who defended Verstappen's penalty, including Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, who maintained that the penalty was unwarranted. Herbert asserted that, regardless of disagreement over the penalty, both Verstappen and Horner should have accepted the decision and moved on, emphasizing sportsmanship and responsibility. The incident has sparked broader discussion about appropriate conduct and the expectations placed on top drivers in Formula 1.