Verstappen summoned by stewards again after FP2 incident with Colapinto

Max Verstappen is set for another meeting with the FIA stewards following a second on-track incident during Friday practice at the Japanese Grand Prix, this time involving Williams driver Franco Colapinto. This comes just hours after the Red Bull driver was cleared of any wrongdoing in a separate FP1 incident with Lewis Hamilton.

Why it matters:

For a driver and team leading the championship, repeated stewards' investigations—even for incidents deemed not their fault—represent an unnecessary distraction and potential risk. Each summons consumes time and mental energy, while highlighting the persistent traffic and impeding issues that plague modern F1 practice sessions, especially at a demanding circuit like Suzuka.

The details:

• FP1 Incident with Hamilton: Verstappen approached a slow-moving Lewis Hamilton in the middle of the track during FP1, requiring a swift direction change to avoid contact. The stewards investigated but took no further action, ruling Verstappen was not forced to take "evasive action."
• FP2 Incident with Colapinto: The stewards noted a potential breach of regulations by Colapinto at Turn 15, allegedly impeding Verstappen. The specific article cited (B4.1.1) relates to driving erratically or in a manner that could endanger other drivers.
• The Regulatory Focus: The back-to-back investigations underscore the FIA's continued vigilance on impeding and unpredictable driving during practice, where significant speed differentials are common as cars run different programs.
• Verstappen's Day: Despite the off-track discussions, Verstappen's running was largely unaffected, and he ended FP2 near the top of the timesheets, focusing on the team's race preparation.

What's next:

The stewards will hear from both drivers involved in the FP2 incident. A decision is expected before final practice on Saturday.

• While a penalty for Colapinto is possible if impeding is proven, the primary outcome for Verstappen is likely just the inconvenience of the process.
• The larger focus for Red Bull will be to ensure a clean Saturday and secure a strong grid position, leaving the Friday drama behind.