Max Verstappen avoids post-race interviews, citing FIA rules and fears over penalties for speaking too openly about key issues.
Red Bull driver Max Verstappen is choosing silence over controversy—and he’s not hiding why.
After the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah, Verstappen skipped the usual post-race interviews and kept his responses brief during the official FIA press conference. When asked why he seemed so reserved, his answer was blunt:
“The problem is, I can’t really say what I think without risking a penalty. So honestly, it’s better not to say anything at all.”
This marks another step in what many see as Verstappen’s quiet protest against Formula 1’s strict media protocols. He did offer a few thoughts to selected reporters afterward, but his attitude during the FIA session was clear: the less said, the better.
Verstappen’s frustration seems to stem from ongoing tension with the FIA—particularly a lingering sense of injustice over a recent starting penalty he’s still upset about. And in his eyes, speaking freely has become a dangerous game.
“I know I can’t swear, but even constructive criticism can get labeled as ‘damaging’ or ‘dangerous.’ I mean, have you seen the list of things you can get fined for? It’s long. That’s why I just don’t bother anymore—you can land in trouble way too easily.”
But it’s not just the FIA that’s made Verstappen wary.
“It’s also about social media. These days, anything you say can be twisted or taken out of context. Honestly, staying quiet is safer. That’s the approach I’m trying to take now.”
When asked whether he finds it frustrating to let others speak on his behalf or misinterpret his silence, Verstappen stayed consistent:
“Look, that’s the world we live in now. You can’t speak your mind without someone getting offended or twisting your words. So yeah, I’d rather just say less—it saves time too. We’ve already got enough going on as it is.”
Max Verstappen isn’t angry. He’s just done talking—for now.
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Verstappen Goes Silent: Fear of Fines Mutes Red Bull Champion Verstappen Goes Silent: Fear of Fines Mutes Red Bull Champion
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