Max Verstappen’s risk of a race ban has significantly reduced as three penalty points were cleared from his record prior to the Brazilian Grand Prix. Verstappen now holds only six penalty points over the past year, offering a more comfortable position for the remaining four races of the season. His competitor, Oliver Bearman, also received some leniency as they approach the conclusion of the championship.
Both Verstappen and Bearman had successful performances at the Mexican Grand Prix, finishing in third and fourth places respectively. Bearman achieved his career-best result and narrowly missed a podium finish.
Following the races, the FIA made adjustments to the drivers’ super licenses according to sporting regulations. Verstappen had previously accumulated penalty points for incidents involving Lando Norris and a virtual safety car violation, but these have now been expunged from his record.
Bearman, on the other hand, was close to a potential race ban after a collision with Carlos Sainz, but his total penalty points have been reduced to eight, with two points removed for an incident with Franco Colapinto in Brazil.
Although Bearman received a time penalty for exceeding track limits during a race in Austin, it did not result in additional penalty points on his FIA super license.
In addition to Verstappen and Bearman, other drivers also had adjustments to their penalty points this weekend. Oscar Piastri, a contender for the championship, had two points removed from his license due to a collision with Liam Lawson in the previous year’s Sao Paulo race.
The revised penalty points offer some relief to Verstappen and Piastri as they navigate the final stages of the championship battle. The pressure is particularly high on Piastri, who has struggled to keep up with his rivals in recent races, losing a significant lead in the standings.
Verstappen acknowledges the challenge ahead and understands that flawless performances are essential for securing his fifth consecutive title. He emphasized the need to perform at the highest level to maintain his championship aspirations.