Max Verstappen Skips FIA Awards Due to Flu
Max Verstappen, who finished as the runner-up in the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship while driving for Red Bull Racing, has opted not to attend the FIA Awards ceremony. The event, which takes place on Friday night, is a celebration for the top finishers in the racing season. Verstappen’s decision stems from a bout of what has been characterized as seasonal flu.
Verstappen’s Absence from the Ceremony
Expected to join his fellow competitors, Lando Norris from McLaren and Oscar Piastri, Verstappen was set to make a notable appearance at the prestigious end-of-season gala held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. However, according to reports from the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, which has close ties to the Verstappen family, the 28-year-old driver called in sick after experiencing flu symptoms. This led him to cancel his travel plans following a recent visit to the Red Bull factory located in Milton Keynes.
Recognition for Outstanding Performances
In addition to being among the top three finishers in the championship, Verstappen received a nomination for the FIA Action of the Year award. This recognition was for an impressive maneuver he executed during the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, where he successfully overtook Piastri at the start of the race. This decisive move allowed Verstappen to take the lead into the crucial Tamburello corner, ultimately contributing to his victory in that race.
Last year, Verstappen had a different kind of experience at the FIA gala in Kigali, Rwanda, when he was required to perform community service as a result of his inappropriate language during a press conference at the Singapore Grand Prix. He participated in efforts to launch the FIA’s Affordable Cross Car initiative and engaged with young drivers and engineers through grassroots programs.
Reflecting on a Challenging Season
Following the conclusion of the 2025 season, Verstappen expressed his thoughts after narrowly missing out on claiming his fifth consecutive world drivers’ title during the final race in Abu Dhabi. He described the season as a "massive rollercoaster," highlighting the mixture of highs and lows he experienced throughout the year.
"The first half of the season had some great moments, but it was mostly filled with challenges—some really tough races and emotions," Verstappen reflected. "However, I take pride in our determination. It is a valuable lesson for everyone: even in difficult times, you must keep pushing forward and working hard to understand your challenges, as you never know what the outcome might be."
Winning the first championship is a milestone that every driver dreams of when entering the sport. Verstappen expressed his emotional connection to the achievement and extended his wishes for Norris, acknowledging the remarkable season they both had and emphasizing the importance of celebrating their successes.
FIA Elections and Leadership
On the same day as the awards ceremony, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem was re-elected unopposed for a second four-year term. This outcome came about because none of the potential challengers were able to assemble a qualified election team. To run a valid presidential campaign, candidates needed to include members from the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) representing all regions.
With Fabiana Ecclestone being the only eligible WMSC representative from South America, other challengers like Tim Mayer and Laura Villars could not fulfill the requirements to present a valid ticket. Villars has taken legal steps against the FIA, and a French court recently ruled that the FIA presidential elections could proceed. However, the case is set for a full court hearing in February, indicating potential legal complexities ahead.
Looking Ahead
As the dust settles on the 2025 season, the world of Formula 1 gears up for the next chapter. Drivers, teams, and fans alike will be closely watching how the upcoming season unfolds. The competition remains fierce, with new strategies and technologies continually shaping the landscape of F1 racing.
Max Verstappen’s absence from the FIA Awards highlights the unpredictable nature of life as a professional athlete, where health can significantly impact participation in important events. As he recuperates, fans and supporters eagerly await his return to the grid, hoping to see him back in top form for the next racing season.
The resolutions made and lessons learned during the tumultuous 2025 season will undoubtedly influence how Verstappen and his team approach the future. The dynamics of competition in Formula 1 are ever-changing, and every season brings new challenges and opportunities for growth.
As the FIA continues its work in regulating and promoting motorsport, the leadership of figures like Mohammed Ben Sulayem will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the sport. The ongoing discussions about governance and regulations within the FIA highlight the complexities involved in managing an organization that oversees a global motorsport community.
With Verstappen focusing on recovery and the FIA navigating its internal challenges, the stage is set for an exciting future in Formula 1. As teams refine their strategies and drivers prepare for the races ahead, the anticipation builds for what the next season will bring to the world of motorsport.
