Max Verstappen is currently under investigation by the FIA stewards following an alleged yellow-flag infringement during sprint qualifying for the Singapore Grand Prix. The incident, reported by Lewis Hamilton, occurred during the session at the Marina Bay Street Circuit.
The alleged breach took place after Sergio Perez crashed, damaging his Cadillac’s front wing and leaving debris on the track. Yellow flags were deployed, and Hamilton reported over team radio that Verstappen had overtaken him under these conditions.
Verstappen, who secured pole position for the sprint race, also communicated with his team, stating he believed he had passed Hamilton before the yellow flag zone. He also suggested he had let Hamilton back through.
Red Bull Racing has indicated that such situations can be challenging. The team’s stance often highlights the split-second decisions drivers must make, particularly on demanding circuits like Singapore.
Laurent Mekies, a Red Bull team principal, has previously praised Verstappen’s decisive actions under pressure. He noted Verstappen’s determination in crucial moments, reflecting the driver’s approach to challenging circumstances.
The FIA stewards have confirmed the investigation, with Verstappen and representatives from Red Bull required to report after the session. A grid penalty for the upcoming sprint race remains a possibility if an infringement is confirmed.
This incident adds to a challenging period for Verstappen and Red Bull. The team has acknowledged ongoing issues with the 2026 car, which Mekies described as a ‘complex issue’ that may extend into the 2027 season.
Verstappen also experienced a radio failure during the opening practice session in Singapore, further complicating his start to the weekend. The investigation’s outcome is pending.
