Verstappen, Bearman Clear Danger Zone as F1 Penalty Points Recalculated After Mexico GP

Max Verstappen and Oliver Bearman have seen significant penalty points removed from their Super Licences, easing concerns over potential race bans. The F1 penalty point system, which dictates a race ban for any driver accumulating 12 points within a 12-month period, had placed both drivers near the critical threshold before the recent Mexico Grand Prix.

Why it matters:

• The penalty point system is a crucial mechanism for maintaining driving standards and safety in Formula 1. Its strict enforcement means that drivers constantly operate under the threat of a race ban, impacting championship dynamics and team strategies.
• For Verstappen, a race ban would have had severe implications for his championship campaign, while for rookie Bearman, it could hinder his development and reputation.

The Details:

• Heading into the Mexico Grand Prix, Verstappen was on 11 points, just one shy of a ban, following an incident with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix. He now moves down to six penalty points.
  • The two points he received at the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix for an incident involving Lando Norris have been removed.
  • An additional point from last year's Brazilian Grand Prix Sprint for a safety car infringement has also been cleared.
• Oliver Bearman, who entered the Mexico weekend with 10 penalty points, now sits on eight penalty points.
  • The two points he received for a collision with Franco Colapinto during the 2024 race have been withdrawn.
• Oscar Piastri also benefited, with two penalty points removed from his licence, bringing his total down to four penalty points.

By the numbers:

Here's an updated look at the F1 penalty points leaderboard after the Mexico City GP:

What's next:

With these points cleared, both Verstappen and Bearman can approach the upcoming Brazilian Grand Prix with less pressure regarding potential suspensions. This recalculation highlights the dynamic nature of the penalty system, which sees points expire after 12 months, constantly shifting the landscape for drivers on the edge.