Verstappen Slammed for Podium ‘Rudeness’ After Saudi GP

Max Verstappen faces backlash for his cold behavior after finishing second, leaving his podium rivals to celebrate without him.

Max Verstappen has faced criticism for his behavior on the podium after the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where he finished second behind McLaren’s Oscar Piastri at the Jeddah circuit. Verstappen received a five-second penalty for an off-track overtake, which had given him a lasting advantage during an intense first-lap battle with Piastri at the first corner.

During the post-race podium ceremony, Verstappen made it clear he wasn’t in the mood to celebrate with Piastri and third-place finisher Charles Leclerc. After receiving his sparkling water—alcohol is prohibited in Saudi Arabia—the four-time world champion took a sip before quickly leaving the stage, leaving Piastri and Leclerc to celebrate together by spraying each other.

Former FIA commissioner and F1 driver Johnny Herbert was unimpressed with Verstappen’s sulking behavior, despite the frustration stemming from his penalty.

“I saw Max drinking champagne on the podium, but I didn’t see him really celebrate with Oscar or Charles,” Herbert remarked. “It comes across as unprofessional and disrespectful, especially for a four-time world champion. Sometimes, you have to show grace in defeat.”

Herbert also weighed in on the penalty, defending its fairness and calling out those who criticized it.

“I don’t understand how anyone can claim the penalty was unfair. Those who disagree probably have never raced a car, let alone a Formula 1 car, so they don’t get it,” he added. “I’m including Christian Horner in this. As the team principal, he’s trying to do what’s best for Red Bull, but sometimes you have to accept when you’re wrong and step aside.”

“Most drivers know when to give the position back. But Horner just indulges every whim of his driver. It’s no surprise.”

• Discover More>Marko Confident Red Bull Can Beat McLaren This Season
• Follow us on >FACEBOOK and >TWITTERfor F1 update

Verstappen Slammed for Podium ‘Rudeness’ After Saudi GP Verstappen Slammed for Podium ‘Rudeness’ After Saudi GP