Max Verstappen faces investigation as Azerbaijan Grand Prix has explosive end
Max Verstappen is under scrutiny for a suspected infringement of the virtual safety car rules at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
The Dutch driver finished in fifth place after Sergio Perez and Carlos Sainz collided on the second to last lap. However, the incident that saw him climb two places could also be his downfall.
F1 race officials noted Verstappen’s actions and launched an investigation into whether he overtook cars after the race ended under virtual safety car conditions, leaving him with a tense wait post-race.
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Footage from his RB20 showed the 26 year old pulling up alongside title contender Lando Norris and Mercedes’ George Russell, offering congratulations to the McLaren and Mercedes drivers.
It’s been a weekend to forget for the three-time world champion. Despite Norris being eliminated in Q1, Verstappen was unable to capitalise, finishing just behind the McLaren star, reports the Express.
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Verstappen also found himself lagging behind team-mate and Baku expert Perez. The Mexican was set for his first podium finish in 12 Grands Prix before his collision with Sainz.
Sadly for Verstappen and his Red Bull team, Perez’s efforts did little to help their Constructors’ Championship campaign. McLaren now holds a 20-point lead going into next weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix.
McLaren’s dazzler in Baku saw Oscar Piastri taking the lead, snatching his second Grand Prix win with style. After sweeping past the chequered flag, Piastri couldn’t contain his joy: “It definitely goes down as one of the better races of my career,” he glowed.
He lavished praise on his team’s remarkable trajectory: “I think considering where we started when I joined the team last year, we were literally last and now we’re leading the world championship. It’s a credit to the team for the turnaround in the last 18 months ago, and they’ve improved me as well. It’s a massive team effort and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”
