How the FIA is pushing Max Verstappen towards an early F1 retirement

The 2024 Formula One season has turned into a year of frustration for Max Verstappen. However, he still leads the Drivers' Championship with three races to go. The Dutch driver is gauging an open war with the FIA over 'racing discrepancies'.

The 'Flying Dutchman' has hinted at the possibility of quitting Formula 1 following the fallout with the FIA over the use of profanity during an interview and the constant sanctioning of the Red Bull driver.

The three-time world champion has been sanctioned for swearing, speed under VSC, and aggressive driving (track limits), sparking many debates surrounding the current state of Formula 1.

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Before the São Paulo GP, Verstappen was found to be 0.63 seconds below the minimum time when racing resumed (and attempted to pass Piastri). "This indicated a sporting advantage gained under VSC. This is a breach and the standard penalty is applied for the advantage gained," reports ESPN.

Verstappen went on to win the chaotic São Paulo Grand Prix after a stunning recovery from P17. His first race win since June. Despite sanctions, media pressure, and being tossed to the back of the grid, the Dutchman proved he is the very best driver in Formula 1.

Verstappen has expressed dissatisfaction with the increasing regulations and scrutiny in the sport, suggesting that incidents like these are making it less enjoyable for him. Although he remains dominant on the track, the off-track controversies seem to be taking a toll on the Dutch driver's relationship with Formula 1.

The 'Flying Dutchman,' was reprimanded by the FIA for using profanity during a press conference, where he described the car as "f---ed." This remark was deemed a breach of the FIA's International Sporting Code, which governs the conduct of drivers and teams both on and off the track. He has been instructed to do "community service" as his penalty.

"For sure, these kind of things decide my future as well," he said. "You know when you can't be yourself, or you have to deal with these kinds of silly things," Verstappen shared during the post-race interview.

"I think now I'm at the stage of my career that you don't want to be dealing with this all the time. It's really tiring. Of course, it's great to have success and win races, but you know, once you have accomplished all that winning championships and races, and then you want to just have a good time as well. Of course, everyone is pushing to the limit," he added during an interview, reports ESPN.

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The incident left Verstappen with some mixed feelings towards the FIA's action, where he claims "they prevent him from being himself". Some fans argue it's his old-school demeanor that is making him a FIA target.

The Red Bull driver called the swearing reprimand "super silly" and stressed that his profanity wasn't aimed at insulting anyone, adding that drivers need space to express emotions.

"Yes, for sure. I mean, if you can't really be yourself to the fullest, then it's better not to speak," he said. "That's what no one wants," shared Verstappen during a post-race interview.

Verstappen reportedly shared the FIA's ruling regarding his use of profanity in the drivers' group chat, according to ESPN. He claimed that his fellow drivers found the situation "laughable" and difficult to understand. The reigning champion's frustration with the FIA's strict enforcement of rules has been a recurring theme these last couple of years.

The entire grid came together to release a statement against the FIA, slamming the institution for handing Mex Verstappen a penalty for using x-rated language. The GPDA (Gran Prix Drivers Association) shared: "They are the gladiators and every racing weekend they put on a show for the fans,", hinting more respect is due.

His frustration with the FIA raises questions about his long-term future in Formula 1. His 'old school' attitude is that of a dying F1 breed of drivers, who are rugged and tough. While focused on racing, he hinted that more issues like this could accelerate his departure from the sport.

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