George Russell Surprised by Verstappen’s Apology After Spanish Grand Prix Collision

Posted : 13 June 2025

George Russell has acknowledged Max Verstappen's apology following their on-track collision during the Spanish Grand Prix, admitting he was pleasantly surprised that the reigning world champion took responsibility. The incident occurred in the late stages of the race at Turn One after a safety car reshuffled the grid.

Verstappen, under pressure and already frustrated from losing control and positions, collided with Russell in what stewards deemed avoidable, handing him a 10-second penalty and three licence points. With 11 points now accumulated, Verstappen stands just one penalty point away from a one-race ban.

While Verstappen described the incident as a misjudgement and admitted on social media that it “shouldn’t have happened,” Russell noted the rare gesture of accountability from his rival. "It cost him and benefited me, so I should be thanking him," Russell said.

The Briton also mentioned that while the collision did not end his race, the penalty seemed fair. He added, however, that if he had been taken out completely, harsher consequences would have been justified. Russell also pointed out that Verstappen’s current disciplinary record could become a strategic advantage for his competitors at upcoming races in Canada and Austria.

The clash in Barcelona stemmed from a heated few laps in which Verstappen lost grip on hard tyres, was passed by Charles Leclerc, and then overtaken by Russell in a sequence that saw them make contact. Verstappen initially accused Russell of pushing him off the track, but Red Bull later instructed him to yield the position to avoid further sanctions.

Verstappen reflected on the sequence as a convergence of frustration, pressure, and misjudgement. Despite the looming threat of a suspension, he insisted he won’t change his aggressive driving style, saying he still trusts his instincts on the track.

Russell concluded that a suspension would be warranted if Verstappen continues to rack up penalty points, stating, “If he gets 12 points, it wouldn't be unjust.” He emphasized that drivers should race smartly and said he has no intention of changing his approach, especially when incidents like the one in Spain have worked in his favour.

Interestingly, the pair had a cordial encounter at Nice airport days after the race, where they shared a brief exchange before Verstappen continued traveling with his newborn. The incident and Verstappen’s growing disciplinary record now add an intriguing subplot to the championship narrative as the Formula One circus heads to Canada.

George Russell Surprised by Verstappen’s Apology After Spanish Grand Prix Collision

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