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Max Verstappen revealed how he got away with not paying the bill at the end of year F1 drivers’ dinner in Abu Dhabi – and yes, it involved a G&T.
Max Verstappen shared how he managed to avoid paying the bill at the end of the year F1 drivers’ dinner in Abu Dhabi by relying on a G&T for distraction. The tradition of the drivers’ dinner, which started in 2022 to honor Sebastian Vettel’s retirement, had most drivers attending, with exceptions like Fernando Alonso, Lance Stroll, and Nico Hulkenberg missing from the 2025 event. At the 2025 dinner, Lewis Hamilton and Verstappen were among the champions present, with Verstappen sharing the story on Red Bull’s official podcast Talking Bull. Verstappen revealed that Valtteri Bottas had graciously covered the bill the previous year, leading to jokes about it being Max’s turn, until it was discovered that Pierre Gasly had already settled the tab, leaving Max amused about the situation. Despite the humorous back and forth, Verstappen joked that he might need to inform others in advance that he’ll pay the bill next time, emphasizing his intent to contribute his share and his anticipation for future dinners in the upcoming years.
