F1 fans divided as Max Verstappen comes under scrutiny for Spanish GP crash

After a dramatic end to the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix involving a controversial collision between four-time champion Max Verstappen and Mercedes driver George Russell, Formula 1 fans have turned social media into a courtroom.

A tense race restart after a safety car triggered by Kimi Antonelli's mechanical failure saw a number of clashes between the Red Bull ace and several other drivers. After contact with Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc, the Dutchman was further infuriated when George Russell hit him in Turn One as he struggled with oversteer in the wake of Leclerc. But his feelings boiled over when he was told to give the position back to the Mercedes driver.

As Verstappen slowed ahead of Turn Four, seemingly allowing Russell to overtake, his car slammed into the side of the Brackley machine as the two navigated the corner. When asked if this was intentional following the race, the driver's response was clear: "Does it matter?"

Fans were quick to react to the controversial moment, which saturated interviews following the race.

“Very immature response from a 4-time driver's champion," one user said in response to Verstappen's answer. "It's also a very frightening response as it shows intent and no remorse.”

“He’s a very good driver, but he has a hard time controlling his emotions," a second added. "And that doesn’t put him among the greats."

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, George Russell, Mercedes

Photo by: Sam Bloxham / Motorsport Images via Getty Images

Another said: “Intent matters. Character matters."

Of course, not all comments stood against the driver. Others defended the action, arguing that it was simply a result of racing.

“Idk why everyone wants the drivers to race like porcelain dolls. It’s motorsport," a commenter argued. "George didn’t die, and literally no damage came from it.”

With the driver struggling in a car that's not as competitive compared to its predecessors, there is general frustration behind the visor.

“He’s a champion with a s*** team right now. It’s reasonable frustration.”

Verstappen walked away with a 10-second penalty following the race as well as an additional three penalty points. This puts him on the edge of a potential race ban as the F1 circus comes to the end of the triple header before heading to Canada.