Max Verstappen Withdraws from Sim Racing Final and FIA Gala Due to Illness

Max Verstappen has withdrawn from the Heineken 0.0 sim racing world final in Madrid and will also miss the FIA's official prize-giving gala in Tashkent due to illness. The reigning four-time Formula 1 world champion was scheduled to appear at both events this weekend.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's absence from the FIA gala is particularly notable, as it is a formal event where champions and top finishers are expected to collect their trophies. His withdrawal means he will not be present to receive his official trophy for finishing as the runner-up in the 2026 Drivers' Championship, breaking from tradition. His non-attendance at the high-profile sim racing final also disappoints a significant esports and gaming audience that follows his virtual racing exploits.

The details:

• The Dutch driver was set to be a headline participant at the Gamergy Heineken 0.0 sim racing world final in Madrid on Saturday.
• He has also pulled out of traveling to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, for the FIA Prize Giving ceremony.
• Event organizers released a statement confirming his withdrawal, citing illness as the sole reason for his absence from both commitments.

What's next:

Verstappen is expected to focus on recovery during the off-season. His next major public appearance will likely be in the lead-up to pre-season testing for the 2027 F1 season, as teams and drivers prepare for the next chapter of technical regulations. The FIA will presumably arrange for Verstappen to receive his championship runner-up trophy through alternative means.