F1 Rivalry Intensifies: Red Bull Preemptively Warned FIA of "Gamesmanship" Against Verstappen

The simmering rivalry between Max Verstappen and George Russell took a new strategic turn in Canada, with Red Bull revealing they preemptively warned the FIA about potential "trickery" aimed at forcing a ban for the reigning champion.

The Penalty Point Precipice:

Verstappen arrived in Montreal carrying 11 penalty points on his super licence – just one away from an automatic one-race suspension. His next point wouldn't expire until after the Austrian GP. This precarious position made him a target.

Red Bull's Pre-Race Maneuver:

Team Principal Christian Horner disclosed that Red Bull met with Race Director Rui Marques before the Grand Prix. This followed comments from Russell after qualifying: "I've got more penalty points to play with than Max. That's probably an advantage."

"We raised it after the driver's briefing... just so they were mindful of it," Horner stated. "It was clear that kind of stuff goes on... We just said 'could they please keep an eye on it.'" Horner called the potential for manipulation "inevitable."

The Failed Protest & Accusations:

Red Bull's post-race protest against Russell focused on his conduct under the Safety Car. They alleged:

1. Unnecessary Braking: Russell braked "erratically" on the back straight, surprising Verstappen.
2. Provocative Radio Message: Russell's radio complaint about Verstappen passing him (while still behind the Safety Car) "displayed unsportsmanlike intent."
3. Deliberate Entrapment: Onboard footage allegedly showed Russell checking his mirrors before braking "to force Verstappen to overtake... to force an infringement."

Russell & Mercedes' Rebuttal:

Russell firmly denied any intent to provoke, stating he wasn't trying to force an investigation. Mercedes emphasized they lodged no complaint against Verstappen for the brief pass.

Stewards' Verdict:

The FIA stewards dismissed Red Bull's protest, finding "no evidence of any unsportsmanlike conduct" by Russell. They deemed the braking within acceptable limits and the radio message simply reporting a perceived incident.

Escalating Tensions:

This marks the second protest by Red Bull against Russell in five races (following the failed Miami yellow flag protest). The intense rivalry between the drivers, combined with Verstappen's penalty point vulnerability and Russell's recent win, has clearly intensified off-track strategizing. Red Bull's pre-emptive warning to the FIA signals a new level of gamesmanship in this high-stakes championship battle.