Verstappen instructed to give back positions in Spanish Grand Prix
Formula1.com • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 14, 2026, 12:47 PM
Last updated Sep 14, 2026

Max Verstappen received team instructions to relinquish positions early in the Spanish Grand Prix, ultimately finishing in P2. During the race, Verstappen engaged in a collision with Lewis Hamilton, leading to the decision to give back his position. After allowing both Kimi Antonelli and Hamilton to pass, he quickly regained his standing when Hamilton retired due to brake issues. Team Principal Laurent Mekies explained that the team wanted to avoid a potential penalty and believe giving up positions was strategically sound. Verstappen now holds sixth place in the Drivers' Championship with 145 points, as Red Bull ranks fourth in the Constructors' Championship after the race.
- •Verstappen finishes second at the Spanish Grand Prix.
- •Incident with Hamilton prompts team to ask for positions back.
- •Hamilton retires shortly after Verstappen relinquishes positions.
- •Verstappen now sixth in the Drivers' Championship with 145 points.
- •Red Bull sits fourth in the Constructors' Championship.
"Max Verstappen was instructed to give positions back at the start of the Spanish Grand Prix before eventually finishing in P2.
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