Max Verstappen was investigated for an alleged virtual safety car infringement at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. After a lengthy review, the Red Bull star was handed an official warning but escaped without a post-race time penalty.
The Dutchman was classified in P5 after Sergio Perez and Carlos Sainz came together on the penultimate lap of the race. However, the incident that saw him gain two positions may also be his undoing.
Verstappen was noted and then placed under investigation by the race stewards for overtaking cars after the chequered flag under virtual safety car conditions. The 26-year-old was then called to the stewards to discuss the mishap, who ultimately deemed his moves worthy of a warning.
On-board footage from his RB20 revealed that the 26-year-old pulled alongside title rival Lando Norris and Mercedes’ George Russell, congratulating the McLaren and Mercedes drivers.
The whole weekend has been one to forget for the three-time world champion. With Norris knocked out in Q1, the opportunity was there to claw back some points, but he finished one place behind the McLaren star.
Verstappen was also struggling for pace relative to team-mate and Baku specialist Perez. The Mexican was on track for his first podium in 12 Grands Prix before coming together with Sainz.
Unfortunately for the Dutchman and his Red Bull crew, Perez’s efforts counted for little in their Constructors’ Championship battle. McLaren now have a 20-point advantage heading into the Singapore Grand Prix next weekend.
McLaren’s charge in Baku was spearheaded by Oscar Piastri, who stormed to a second career Grand Prix victory. “It definitely goes down as one of the better races of my career,” he beamed after the chequered flag.
“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.”
