Max Verstappen on the Brink of F1 Ban After Mexico City Penalties
Max Verstappen’s dominance in the 2023 Formula 1 season took a hit in Mexico City after he received two penalty points, bringing him closer to a potential race ban. The Red Bull driver was involved in two controversial incidents during the race, leading to a 20-second penalty and a significant setback in his championship pursuit.
Verstappen’s Controversial Maneuvers
On lap 10, Verstappen aggressively overtook Lando Norris at Turn 4, forcing the McLaren driver off the track. While Norris did eventually return the position to Verstappen, he didn’t relinquish it to the leader, Carlos Sainz. Moments later, Verstappen attempted another daring move at Turn 8, pushing both cars off the track and seemingly overtaking illegally. For both these actions, Verstappen was penalized with 10-second time penalties, totaling 20 seconds.
Despite the penalties, Verstappen finished sixth, but the stewards deemed his move on Norris at Turn 4 worthy of two penalty points on his super-licence. This brings his total to six points within the 12-month period, leaving him just six points away from a potential one-race ban.
Other Penalty Points in Mexico
Verstappen wasn’t the only driver facing penalty points in Mexico. Franco Colapinto received two points for a collision with Liam Lawson late in the race.
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