Max Verstappen’s middle finger gesture during Friday’s pre-season test in Bahrain caught the attention of fans.
It sparking speculation on whether the reigning world champion was lashing out at an intrusive photographer. However, the truth behind the incident happened to be much more lighthearted.
The FIA’s recent rule changes
The incident raised questions from fans due to the FIA’s recent crackdown on driver behaviour. Verstappen already faced fines last season for violating the FIA’s new regulations.
Being four points away from an automatic race ban, many were concerned if the governing body would take action. However, The FIA swiftly confirmed no actions would be taken against the four-time World Champion. This is because test sessions do not fall under the jurisdiction of race stewards.
The FIA has been under scrutiny for how it handles driver conduct. Having recently penalised WRC driver Adrien Fourmaux with a €10,000 fine for using explicit language in a live interview.
Verstappen himself has had previous run-ins with the FIA for his language, including several incidents during the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix. This resulted in the Dutch driver completing a “motorsport community service” in which he worked with the Rwanda Automobile Club to develop motorsport for young people.
The story behind the gesture
Many television cameras caught Max Verstappen’s middle finger incident. The video shows Verstappen raising his middle finger to the Williams pit wall. Initially, many believed this was directed toward a photographer attempting to take a close-up shot of the RB21. However, Motorsport-Total.com reported that the recipient of Verstappen’s gesture was Luke Browning. The Formula 2 and Williams Junior Driver is a personal friend of the Dutchman.
Ultimately the act was nothing more than a lighthearted exchange between friends.
FIA’s hardline approach to driver behaviour
The FIA’s tough stance on driver language and behaviour has been met with criticism from many. Most notably, Verstappen has voiced his concerns on the new rules, stating that whilst excessive profanities should be shunned, as it is a high-adrenaline sport.
There are moments in which drivers are not thinking straight and acting purely based on adrenaline. The reigning World Champion believes that there should be lighter restrictions for drivers.
“We understand that swearing all the time isn’t ideal,” Verstappen commented.
“But in the heat of the moment, when you’re in the car or fresh out of it, emotions take over. It shouldn’t be taken so literally.”
Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has echoed the words of Verstappen, emphasising the importance of context around driver speech.
He acknowledged the need for one to respect the officials and their competitors, and stressed that drivers’ emotional reactions should not be overly policed.
“If someone uses certain words out of frustration with their own performance, that’s one thing,” Wolff stated.
“But if it’s directed at someone in a disrespectful way, that’s where the line should be drawn.”
The crackdown on driver behaviour is set to be a major talking point this season. as stricter regulations are being implemented in Australia.
Feature Image Credit: Red Bull Content Pool
