Max Verstappen has been summoned with managers over the incident that saw Lewis Hamilton drive behind him at the Saudi Grand Prix on Sunday.
The collision between Verstappen and Hamilton was one of the main highlights of a fiercely controversial race.
The two title competitors were vying for the race lead when Verstappen pressed Hamilton wide in Round 1 in a move similar to his controversial defense at the Brazilian Grand Prix. Verstappen appeared to keep the lead by leaving the lap and was soon asked by Red Bull to give way to Hamilton.
Hamilton appeared uninformed that Verstappen was doing so, driving into the rear of the Red Bull driver. Verstappen dropped five gears and downshifted instantly. Hamilton also slowed down initially, and then attempted to overtake on the left, cutting through Verstappen’s car.
Hamilton was livid, calling Verstappen “dangerous” and claiming the Dutchman had “tried the brakes” on him – hinting that he deliberately stepped on the brake to cause a collision.
Verstappen was penalized 5 seconds for this incident. A few laps later, Verstappen appeared to let Hamilton pass as his tires faded, finishing second to his title rival.
After the race, Verstappen was told he had been voted driver of the day via radio, when he replied: “Fortunately, the fans have a clear mind about the race.”
Speaking of his penalty, he added: “For me this is not Formula One”.
He later said in his post-race interview: “I slowed down. I wanted to let him pass.
“I went to the right but he didn’t want to pass and then we touched. So I don’t understand what happened there.”
The managers summoned Verstappen on Article 2(d) Chapter IV Appendix L of the FIA International Sports Code, incident 27 at 22.19 respectively.
The article in question is related to: “Creating a collision, repeating serious faults, or exhibiting uncontrolled behavior towards the vehicle (such as leaving the track) will be reported to the Manager and subject to review. may be subject to penalties up to and including disqualification.”
