Tensions surrounding Formula 1 continue to rise as Max Verstappen, reigning world champion and crowd favorite, faces a potential penalty at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix. The incident stems from the events at the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort, where Verstappen won again, but some of his actions during the race and safety periods caught the attention of the stewards.

According to several sources within the paddock, the FIA ​​is investigating several instances in which Verstappen may have defended too aggressively and gained a questionable advantage during a restart. Although Verstappen himself stated in the press conference that he “did nothing wrong and just raced hard,” several teams have raised concerns with race control. The incident with Lando Norris, in which the McLaren driver briefly had to go off the track to avoid a collision, is the focus of the investigation.

The potential punishment could range from a warning to a grid penalty at the start of Monza. For Verstappen, who currently comfortably leads the world championship, such a penalty might not pose a direct threat to his title aspirations, but it would be a major symbolic blow. It would also give Red Bull’s rivals extra motivation to strike at the fast Monza circuit, where Ferrari and McLaren traditionally perform strongly.

The Dutch fans, who supported their hero en masse at Zandvoort, are divided in their reactions. On the one hand, many believe Verstappen is simply doing what every champion should do: fighting for position and not giving an inch. On the other hand, there’s a growing awareness that the FIA, which has recently been monitoring racing behavior more closely, can take strict action if the boundaries are pushed too often.

The issue is also being widely discussed in Italy. The Italian media, who traditionally regard Monza as their “holy temple of speed,” see a potential penalty for Verstappen as an opportunity for Ferrari to finally compete for victory again in front of their home crowd. “If Verstappen is dropped back on the grid, it opens the door for Leclerc and Sainz,” wrote the sports newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport .

Meanwhile, Red Bull Racing emphasizes that it observed no violations and has full confidence in a fair assessment by the FIA. Team principal Christian Horner spoke clearly: “Max raced fantastically in front of his home crowd. He deserves praise, not punishment. We will present all the arguments and expect an objective decision.”

Whatever the outcome, the controversy adds an extra layer of tension to a season already brimming with spectacle. The Italian Grand Prix, held this weekend, will thus have a new narrative: can Verstappen dominate again despite the threat of a penalty, or will his rivals have the chance to make the difference?

One thing is certain: the eyes of the entire Formula 1 world will be focused on Monza, where not only speed, but also justice and sporting limits will be the talk of the town.