“IT’S HIM OR ME” – Oscar Piastri demands Max Verstappen’s suspension and announces his departure from Formula 1
The Formula 1 world was rocked by an explosive statement from Oscar Piastri, the young Australian McLaren driver, who publicly demanded the immediate suspension of Max Verstappen until the end of the 2025 season. In an unexpected press conference in São Paulo, just hours after the Grand Prix, Piastri shocked journalists and fans alike by declaring: “It’s him or me. If nothing is done, I’m leaving Formula 1.” This loaded statement immediately sparked a media firestorm in the paddock.
According to sources close to McLaren, Piastri’s anger stems from an incident during the Brazilian Grand Prix, where an aggressive maneuver by Verstappen allegedly caused contact between the two drivers, forcing Piastri to retire from the race. The usually calm and composed young Australian lost his temper after the event, accusing Verstappen of having “crossed all the boundaries of competition.” Footage of the duel does indeed show a fierce battle in turns 10 and 11, where the two cars grazed each other at high speed.
“This isn’t sport anymore, it’s provocation,” said Piastri, visibly upset. “I respect Max’s talent, but he no longer respects others. If the FIA doesn’t take exemplary action, I no longer belong here.” These remarks, unusual for the young driver, immediately sparked reactions from the F1 community. Some observers felt that Piastri had crossed the line, while others emphasized the urgent need for a debate on safety and fair play in racing.
Max Verstappen’s response was swift. The three-time world champion, questioned in the paddock, displayed surprising composure. “I have nothing to prove to Oscar, or anyone else for that matter. Racing is all about contact, especially when you’re fighting for the win. If someone can’t handle the pressure, they have no business being here.” This cool and confident reaction immediately ignited social media, where fans were divided between supporters of the Dutchman and defenders of Piastri.
For its part, McLaren attempted to defuse the situation, stating in a press release that Piastri was “very emotional” and that no official decision regarding his future had yet been made. The FIA, meanwhile, announced the opening of an investigation into the São Paulo incident, specifying that it would examine the telemetry data and radio communications of both drivers.
As the 2025 season enters its decisive phase, this episode risks leaving deep scars in the paddock. If Piastri maintains his decision to retire, it would be a major loss for Formula 1, which sees him as one of the most promising talents of his generation. But beyond the shock, this controversy highlights the extreme tension this year among the leading drivers, in a battle where every turn can be the deciding factor in a career.
