Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton were called before the FIA stewards following an on-track incident at the Hungarian Grand Prix, where Verstappen’s move into Turn 4 forced Hamilton off the racing line into the escape area. The incident, which took place at the top of a hill in turn 4 during the race, drew attention due to its unusual nature and potential implications for the race outcome. The Max Verstappen Hungary incident investigation centered on whether Verstappen had forced Hamilton off track during a high-speed overtaking attempt.
Red Bull’s Perspective and Challenges in Reviewing the Incident
Though the incident appeared minor on the surface with no evident contact, the stewards proceeded to summon both drivers because of the allegation that Verstappen compelled Hamilton off the track. After the race, Hamilton chose not to attend the stewards’ hearing, having waived his right to a review, though no public explanation was offered for this decision.
Accompanying Verstappen was Steven Knowles, Red Bull’s acting head of sporting, who provided insight during an episode of the Inside Track podcast. Knowles admitted that defending Verstappen required discussion but emphasized the difficulty in judging the situation definitively. He described the overtaking move as occurring in a high-speed corner where passes are rare, and the available footage was largely unhelpful for assessment.
According to Knowles, the timing of camera views compounded the uncertainty, with the primary onboard feed switching unexpectedly to a less informative angle behind the front wing of Verstappen’s car. Simultaneously, helicopter shots were obscured by trees as the cars passed at the critical moment. This lack of clear visual evidence left no one certain about contact, if any, or whether Verstappen had unfairly forced Hamilton off track.
Knowles explained the stewards‘ dilemma:
They were the possibilities. So that’s what we went into to talk about.
—Steven Knowles, Red Bull Acting Head of Sporting
The absence of Hamilton from the stewards’ hearing meant his perspective was not presented, and Knowles suggested this likely did not influence the stewards to take further action. He stated,
Tricky one. I think that’s maybe one for the stewards!
—Steven Knowles, Red Bull Acting Head of Sporting
Knowles added that while the stewards primarily rely on facts, driver engagement in these hearings can sway decisions in borderline cases, though it was uncertain if this would have applied here:
Whether or not it would have made a difference, in this case, I’m not sure.
—Steven Knowles, Red Bull Acting Head of Sporting
Growing Role of Steven Knowles in Regulatory and Stewardship Matters
Steven Knowles took on his new role after Jonathan Wheatley transitioned to Sauber’s team boss position this year, inheriting many responsibilities related to navigating regulatory challenges and steward interactions during race weekends. Knowles noted the volume of incidents that require such involvement often demands diplomatic skill and adaptability.
Drawing from his prior experience as a senior strategy engineer at Red Bull, Knowles explained how managing different steward hearings requires a tailored approach. He noted that conversations shortly after incidents can be delicate due to high adrenaline and emotions, necessitating a careful communication style.
He highlighted the contrast between tense discussions like Verstappen’s Hungary incident and lighter moments such as the “Towelgate” event:
Max had a towel in his car, and everyone was laughing before we even walked into the room. So it really depends a little bit on the situation.
—Steven Knowles, Red Bull Acting Head of Sporting
Context on F1 Penalty Points and Risks of Race Bans in 2025
The Verstappen-Hamilton incident adds to ongoing conversations about penalty point accumulation and possible race bans in Formula 1. Verstappen’s threat of suspension had recently been eased as some penalty points expired, underscoring the importance of each event’s impact on drivers’ records. An understanding of how FIA’s penalty system works, which governs when drivers face sanctions such as race bans, is critical as drivers approach the 2025 season.
Knowles’ evolving role in steward interactions and regulatory adherence will continue to be a key asset for Red Bull as they strive to protect their drivers from sanctions while navigating the unpredictable dynamics on track.