The FIA has officially released new evidence surrounding the heated Safety Car controversy involving Max Verstappen and George Russell at the Canadian Grand Prix, confirming that an additional post-race penalty has been handed down in light of the findings.

The update follows untelevised radio communications and telemetry analysis which revealed that both drivers were actively trying to get each other penalized in the chaotic final laps at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve — a situation that stemmed from their intensifying rivalry and Verstappen’s precarious position with 11 super licence points, just one away from a race ban.

In a formal statement, the FIA clarified:

“After examining all available video, telemetry, and radio evidence from Laps 68 to 70 of the Canadian Grand Prix, we have determined that both Car 1 (Verstappen) and Car 63 (Russell) acted in a manner inconsistent with Article 55.8 and 55.10 of the Sporting Regulations. In particular, Car 1’s brief overtaking maneuver under the Safety Car and Car 63’s failure to maintain the regulated 10-car length behind the Safety Car were both found to be breaches.”

Max Verstappen, who had earlier warned that Russell slowed “way more than 10 car lengths”, was caught overtaking briefly on Lap 68 when the Safety Car was running at reduced pace through the pit lane.

Verstappen, reacting to the penalty, said:

“It’s frustrating, of course, but I kept calm, followed the instructions, and did my part. If they feel there was a mistake, I’ll accept the outcome. What matters to me is that we didn’t fall for the games, and we finished strong.”

While the initial protest from Red Bull — accusing Russell of erratic driving — was rejected by stewards, the FIA has now confirmed that Verstappen will receive a 5-second time penalty and one additional super licence point, taking him to the maximum 12-point limit.

This means Verstappen is now officially suspended from the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix, marking the first time a top-tier championship contender will serve a race ban under the current F1 penalty points system.

FIA Race Director Rui Marques commented:

“While the exchange between both drivers under Safety Car conditions was intense and at times questionable, we acknowledge the difficulty of interpreting delta time instructions live. However, the overtaking manoeuvre by Car 1 cannot be overlooked and constitutes a clear breach. The penalty is consistent with our previous rulings and in line with safety enforcement.”

As for George Russell, the FIA confirmed that although he twice dropped back behind the 10-car limit:

“Given that Car 63 was within delta time parameters and that no dangerous or unsportsmanlike conduct was established beyond reasonable doubt, no further action will be taken.”

Russell, speaking after the ruling, stated:

“I did what I had to do, followed the delta, and focused on the win. Max and I have our moments, but in this case, the facts are the facts.”

With Verstappen now set to miss Red Bull’s home race in Austria, and McLaren surging in performance, the 2025 title fight has taken yet another dramatic twist — one that could reshape the championship battle entirely.