P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 News Today: Verstappen ‘gifted’ title as Red Bull on ‘very limit’ of engine rules
A former FIA steward has suggested that former race director Michael Masi ‘gifted’ Max Verstappen the 2021 world championship, raising controversy over the decision.
Red Bull’s maiden title win was clouded in controversy after Masi’s questionable handling of lapped cars, leading to fresh tyre advantage for Verstappen.
FIA steward Danny Sullivan claimed that Masi handed the title to Verstappen on a plate, sparking further debate on the championship race.
Red Bull powertrains director Ben Hodgkinson admitted that the team is operating at the ‘very limit’ of engine legality following rumors of loopholes in 2026 regulations.
Max Verstappen added fuel to the fire by testing a Mercedes-AMG GT3 car before Red Bull’s 2026 launch, underlining the intensity of the upcoming season.
Sergio Perez’s comments on his time at Red Bull alongside Verstappen were dismissed as ‘nonsense’ by F1 insiders, adding to the drama surrounding the team.
F1 Twitter’s toxic side was highlighted by a racing driver calling out ‘dangerous’ factions, emphasizing the need for a more positive online fan community.
