Max Verstappen’s risk of a race ban has diminished as three penalty points were removed from his record prior to the Brazilian Grand Prix. His total penalty points for the last 12 months now stand at a more comfortable six, while his competitor Oliver Bearman also saw a reduction in penalty points as they approach the final four races of the season.
Both Verstappen and Bearman had successful performances at the Mexican Grand Prix, finishing in third and fourth places respectively. Bearman achieved his best career result and narrowly missed out on a podium finish.
Following the race, the FIA made adjustments to both drivers’ penalty points according to sporting regulations. Verstappen had incurred two penalty points for incidents in Mexico and Brazil, but these have been expunged from his record.
Bearman, on the other hand, was close to a race ban, being just two penalty points away after an incident with Carlos Sainz in Italy. His penalty points have now been reduced to eight after the FIA removed points for an incident with Franco Colapinto in Brazil.
Additionally, Oscar Piastri had two penalty points removed from his license due to an incident with Liam Lawson at last year’s Sao Paulo race. This flexibility provides some relief to Verstappen and Piastri as they navigate the competitive championship battle.
Verstappen is aware of the need for flawless performances to secure his fifth consecutive title. He emphasized the importance of winning every race moving forward to stay in contention for the championship.
