Max Verstappen was left furious at being handed a penalty during the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, but his actions following the race have landed the Red Bull star in more hot water

Helmut Marko’s presence remains one pillar keeping Verstappen grounded at Red Bull, but contractual escape routes are already in place. One clause reportedly allows Verstappen to exit if he’s outside the top three in the standings by mid-season — a possibility that’s swung wildly across the first five rounds.

The Australian driver calmly navigated his way to his third victory of the season, winning the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and placing himself 10 points ahead of teammate Lando Norris in the driver standings. Piastri is the first Australian driver to lead the championship since his manager, Mark Webber, did so 15 years ago at Red Bull.