Verstappen and Alonso Tread Fine Line: Race Ban Looms Ahead of Chinese Grand Prix
Formula 1 titans Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso are both teetering on the edge of a race ban as they head into the Chinese Grand Prix weekend. Each driver currently holds eight penalty points on their racing licenses. Accumulating 12 points triggers an automatic suspension, according to FIA regulations.
Verstappen’s Tightrope Walk
Verstappen’s collision with Oscar Piastri at the 2024 Abu Dhabi season finale placed him in this vulnerable position. The reigning world champion will not see any penalty points expire from his license until after the British Grand Prix in July. With stewards increasingly scrutinizing on-track incidents, even two 10-second time penalties early in the season could potentially sideline Verstappen for a race. Such an outcome would significantly hamper his championship defense, possibly granting rivals like Lando Norris and Piastri a considerable advantage in the Formula 1 title battle.
Verstappen Unfazed by Suspension Risk
Despite the potential consequences, Verstappen asserts he will not alter his assertive driving style. “No, but I’ve been there before,” he stated when questioned about modifying his approach. “I think I’ve been on nine or 10 [previously], so it’s all about just managing the situation.”
Alonso’s Penalty Point Burden
Alonso is also familiar with navigating the penalty point system. Fortunately for the seasoned two-time world champion, three penalty points are set to be removed from his license following the Chinese GP weekend, with a further three points rescinded in mid-April.
Alonso Critiques Penalty System
Alonso previously received two penalty points following a contact incident with Zhou Guanyu at the 2024 Austrian Grand Prix. The Spanish driver voiced his concerns regarding the current application of the race suspension system in response to the penalty.
“I think when penalty points were introduced, it was to prevent hazardous drivers from repeatedly incurring penalties without facing a race ban,” he argued. “Intended to deter dangerous maneuvers and risks to track safety. Now, we are confusing racing incidents with perilous driving.”
“I made a racing error at Turn Three, and I contacted Zhou, and I warrant a 10-second penalty. I believe perhaps Nico [Hulkenberg] also made a racing error during the race. You concede the position, or you incur five or 10 seconds. These are racing incidents; they will invariably occur, as they have in the past.”
Magnussen’s Suspension: A Recent Precedent
In 2023, Kevin Magnussen surpassed the 12-point threshold, leading to a suspension for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Magnussen’s ban followed a tumultuous first half of the season which saw him accumulate numerous penalty points. British driver Oliver Bearman substituted for the former Haas driver during his suspension.