Red Bull driver Max Verstappen was forced to retire from the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix following a collision on the opening lap with Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s Mercedes. The incident occurred as Verstappen, who started seventh on the grid, encountered a clutch problem at the start, which caused him to lose positions rapidly. On the run to the first corner, Verstappen was hit on the rear tyre by Fernando Alonso’s McLaren, which had spun after contact with Daniil Kvyat’s Toro Rosso, resulting in damage that ended Verstappen’s race prematurely.
Verstappen described feeling issues with the clutch during the formation lap and at the start, noting that the failure led to the clutch over-engaging and breaking a bearing, leaving him without drive. He expressed disappointment, especially for the fans, as he was unable to complete even one corner in front of the home crowd.
This retirement marks Verstappen’s third consecutive non-finish, intensifying scrutiny on his performance and increasing the risk of a race ban. Verstappen currently sits just one penalty point shy of the 12-point threshold on his FIA super licence, which would trigger an automatic race suspension if reached.
The Austrian Grand Prix also saw other notable moments, including Lando Norris securing pole position and a strong qualifying showing from Lewis Hamilton. However, Verstappen’s early exit overshadowed much of the race day excitement for Red Bull supporters.
The collision and mechanical failure underline the challenges Verstappen faces this season, as he battles both on-track incidents and regulatory pressures while striving to maintain his championship campaign.
