F1 Live: Verstappen News & Hamilton Investigation Update

Max Verstappen announced a decision regarding his participation in the Nürburgring 24 Hours race ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, while Lewis Hamilton’s incident with the Red Bull driver at the 2025 Hungarian Grand Prix has concluded with no penalty for Verstappen.

The FIA investigated an incident during the Hungarian Grand Prix where Verstappen attempted an overtake on Hamilton at Turn 4. Hamilton was forced wide as a result of the maneuver, though no contact occurred. Stewards examined whether Verstappen had forced Hamilton off the track, considering regulations stating Hamilton would have had the right to the corner if Verstappen’s front axle wasn’t alongside Hamilton’s mirror at the apex. Verstappen was cleared of any wrongdoing, a decision seemingly accepted by Hamilton who did not attend the post-race hearing.

Verstappen expressed his confusion over the initial investigation, stating, “The thing is that nothing happened. We didn’t even touch, that’s the thing. So, for me, it’s a bit difficult to understand why we had the investigation after the race.” He further suggested Hamilton’s absence from the hearing indicated the Ferrari driver did not believe the incident warranted further scrutiny. “I don’t think Lewis actually felt a lot for it, since if he really felt something for it, he’s there in the stewards’ room, right?” Verstappen said, as reported by PlanetF1.com.

The decision comes after a difficult weekend for both drivers at the Hungaroring, where they were battling for 11th place. Verstappen acknowledged the race was not optimal for either competitor, characterizing the incident as a minor event within a larger struggle. Newsweek reported Verstappen “laughed off” the FIA investigation.

In a separate announcement, Verstappen confirmed his participation in the Nürburgring 24 Hours, despite concerns raised by Mercedes factory driver Dani Juncadella regarding his experience in the event. The announcement was made as preparations continue for the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka, where George Russell leads the driver standings, closely followed by Kimi Antonelli after Antonelli’s victory at the China Grand Prix. Fernando Alonso will sit out the first practice session in Japan, with Jak Crawford taking his place amid ongoing vibration issues plaguing both Aston Martin cars.